Geneva: The International Organization for Migration (IOM) announced on Friday that more than 8,900 people died during migration journeys worldwide last year, warning that the actual toll is likely much higher due to underreporting.
In a statement, IOM's Deputy Director General for Operations, Ugochi Daniels, described the rising number of migrant deaths as an "unacceptable and preventable tragedy."
Asia, Africa, and Europe recorded unprecedented numbers of migrant deaths in 2024, with 2,778, 2,242, and 233 fatalities, respectively.
Additionally, at least 2,452 people were reported dead in Mediterranean Sea while attempting to reach Europe.
IOM noted that the real number of migrant deaths and disappearances is likely significantly higher due to the scarcity of official records. Most victims remain unidentified, with little information available about their deaths. Preliminary estimates for Americas indicate approximately 1,233 fatalities.
The organization previously reported that 8,565 people lost their lives on migration routes in 2023. The Central Mediterranean remains the deadliest migration route in the world, according to IOM.
