Increasing Migrant Arrivals in the Canary Islands
On Saturday, approximately 183 migrants reached the shores of the Canary Islands aboard three distinct vessels. Among these individuals were 24 women and at least seven minors, all hailing from sub-Saharan Africa, according to local officials. Spanish authorities reported that about 110 of these migrants were intercepted on two boats en route to the port of Naos in Lanzarote. This influx followed the arrival of a small canoe late Friday night at the port of La Restinga on the island of El Hierro.
The migrants received immediate assistance from Spain’s Maritime Safety and Rescue Society, along with support from the Red Cross, who provided them with clothing, blankets, and food. The recent surge in arrivals has raised significant concerns regarding the escalating rates of irregular migration to the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago strategically located near the African coast and increasingly exploited as a route to mainland Europe.
According to the Spanish interior ministry, the nation witnessed the arrival of 63,970 irregular migrants in 2024, the majority of whom landed in the Canary Islands. This figure marks an increase from 56,852 in 2023, highlighting the growing trend of dangerous maritime journeys.
Tragic Toll of Migration at Sea
A shocking report released by a Spanish migration rights organization in December revealed that over 10,000 migrants lost their lives at sea while attempting to reach Spain in 2024. This tragic statistic translates to an average of 30 migrants per day perishing during their perilous journey, as noted by Caminando Fronteras (Walking Borders). The report also indicated that overall migrant fatalities rose by 58% compared to 2023.
Key Findings from the Report
- Caminando Fronteras documented a total of 10,457 deaths, which included 1,538 children and 421 women, recorded up until December 15.
- Most fatalities occurred along the perilous Atlantic route leading to the Canary Islands, recognized as one of the most treacherous migration paths globally.
- The organization compiled its statistics through interviews with families of migrants and official data from rescue operations.
Related Concerns
- UNICEF urges nations to prioritize the safety of migrant children following the tragic deaths of their parents at sea.
- Recent reports indicate that more than 60 migrants perished after their boat capsized near Spain, as confirmed by a Malian minister.
