IOM Reports 59% Drop in West African Migrant Arrivals

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported a 59% decline in migrant arrivals by sea from Mali, Senegal, Guinea, and The Gambia to Europe in the first half of 2026, with 4,566 migrants arriving through major maritime routes. This figure represents a significant drop from 11,137 arrivals during the same period in 2025.

IOM Director General Amy Pope cautioned that fewer arrivals do not indicate a decrease in migration attempts, as stricter border controls may push migrants towards more perilous routes. The West African Atlantic Route remained the main pathway, with West African nationals constituting 83% of arrivals.

Notably, the proportion of West African nationals on the Western Mediterranean Route increased from 15.6% in 2025 to 21.9% in 2026. Despite the reduction in arrivals, the Atlantic route has become increasingly dangerous, with high rates of deaths and disappearances among migrants.

The decline coincides with stricter immigration policies in several Western countries.