More than 72,000 migrant deaths and disappearances have been recorded globally since 2014, with 2023 marking the deadliest year on record, according to a United Nations report released Tuesday. The findings underscore the perilous journeys faced by those fleeing conflict, disasters, and humanitarian crises.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) documented at least 8,938 migrant fatalities in 2023 alone, with nearly three-quarters linked to crisis-affected regions. "These numbers are a tragic reminder that people risk their lives when insecurity, lack of opportunity, and other pressures leave them with no safe or viable options at home," said IOM Director-General Amy Pope.
Key Findings
Deadliest Routes: The Central Mediterranean remains the most lethal migration corridor, with 25,000 deaths since 2014, many departing from Libya. Over 12,000 perished at sea, while countless others disappeared crossing the Sahara Desert.
Regional Tragedies: Afghanistan saw over 5,000 migrant deaths since 2014, spiking after the Taliban's 2021 return. Over 3,100 Rohingya from Myanmar died fleeing persecution, often in shipwrecks or while crossing into Bangladesh.
Julia Black, coordinator of the IOM's Missing Migrants Project, warned, "Due to data gaps—especially in war zones—the true death toll is likely far higher."
Call for Action
The report urges international cooperation to create stability and legal migration pathways. "When staying is no longer possible, we must enable safe, orderly routes that protect lives," emphasized Pope.
