Brussels, Belgium – The Western Mediterranean route saw an increase in the number of irregular migrants heading to the European Union during the first half of 2026.
This occurred despite a continued significant decrease in the overall number of irregular crossing attempts into the bloc,
as confirmed by the latest data from the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, Frontex.
Height across the western track
Frontex data showed 7,860 irregular crossings via the Western Mediterranean route between January and June 2026.
This represents a 17% increase compared to the same period last year,
indicating a shift in irregular migration patterns towards Europe.
In contrast, the total number of irregular crossings into the European Union
reached approximately 49,000 during the first six months of the year.
This represents a 37% year-on-year decrease, confirming the continued decline in migration flows to EU countries.
The eastern and central routes are the most active
Despite the overall decline, the Eastern and Central Mediterranean routes remained the most active,
accounting for over 60% of all irregular crossings.
The Eastern route recorded 16,643 crossings, a 20% decrease.
The Central route saw a 52% drop to 14,340 crossings
compared to the same period in 2025.
The West African route to the Spanish Canary Islands experienced
the largest decline of all routes, with arrivals falling by 67%.
Strengthening security cooperation
Frontex clarified that the figures reflect detected crossings of the European Union external borders, not the actual number of people.
A person may be detected more than once if they attempt to cross at different points.
Observers believe that the continued decline in irregular migration is
due to enhanced security cooperation between the EU and transit and origin countries.
Furthermore, the new EU Pact on Migration and Asylum entered into force last month.
This pact standardized screening and check procedures for migrants and asylum seekers across the EU,
aiming to strengthen border management and regulate migration flows.
