In 2023, a staggering 8,565 individuals lost their lives while traversing migration routes worldwide, marking the deadliest year since records began a decade ago, as reported by the United Nations.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) declared the 2023 death toll a tragic escalation of 20 percent compared to the previous year, underscoring the pressing need for immediate action to avert further loss of life. This figure surpassed the previous record set in 2016 when 8,084 individuals perished during migration.
With safe and regulated migration pathways remaining scarce, hundreds of thousands of people resort to irregular routes under perilous conditions each year. The Mediterranean Ocean crossing stands out as the most perilous migration route globally, with 3,129 deaths and disappearances recorded in 2023 alone.
Of the total migrant fatalities in 2023, slightly over half were attributed to drowning, with nine percent resulting from vehicle accidents, and seven percent from violence.
Ugochi Daniels, Deputy Director-General of the IOM, reflected on the solemn occasion, stating, “As we commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Missing Migrants Project, we mourn the lives lost. Each loss represents a profound human tragedy, with enduring repercussions for families and communities.”
These distressing statistics compiled by the Missing Migrants Project serve as a poignant reminder of the imperative to redouble efforts in ensuring safe migration for all. Daniels emphasized the necessity to strive for comprehensive action to mitigate the risks associated with migration, envisioning a future where individuals need not jeopardize their lives in pursuit of a better existence.
