By Nkiruka Nnorom

The number of migrants from African, Syrian and Afghans origins entering the European Union countries through irregular routes saw an increase in 2024, even as the total number of irregular migrants to the region recorded a significant decline of 38 per cent, according to new preliminary data from EU’s border agency, Frontex.

Irregular movements have many roots and are often provoked by local or regional instability, the fragile geopolitical situation of a state, poverty or human rights violations.

It has also become a key issue in politics in most developed economies, including the United States, with many far-right parties campaigning on going tough on illegal migration.

Data from the agency, released yesterday, shows that irregular crossing at the Europe’s external borders declined to 239, 000 last year, the lowest level since 2021 when migration was still affected by the COVID-19 pandemic despite persistent migration attempts at Europe’s external borders, 

The agency attributed the decline to intensified EU and partner cooperation against smuggling networks, saying that the decrease in the total number was mainly driven by a 59 percent plunge in arrivals via the Central Mediterranean route and a 78 percent fall in detections on the Western Balkan route following efforts by countries in the region to stem the flow.

The report, however, indicated that significant numbers of migrants or asylum-seekers came through the Eastern border route mostly along the borders with Ukraine and Belarus, Western African countries, as well as from Syria, Afghanistan, and Egypt.

According to Frontex, the number of people crossing from the EU’s borders with Belarus and Russia jumped 192 percent to 17,001, while the number of migrants taking the Western African route to reach the Canary Island rose by 18 percent.

 with arrivals reaching almost 47,000 last year, fuelled by departures from Mauritania.

Moreover, detections of migrants crossing via the Eastern Mediterranean route saw a 14 percent increase to 69 400, driven by new corridors from eastern Libya, with migrants predominantly from Syria, Afghanistan, and Egypt, while   detections of attempted crossings to the UK rose slightly, up nine percent to 67,552 compared to 2023.

Commenting on the preliminary figures, Frontex Executive Director, Hans Leijtens, said: “Every year, we face unique challenges at our borders that require constant vigilance and adaptability. While 2024 saw a significant reduction in irregular border crossings, it also highlighted emerging risks and shifting dynamics.

“Frontex and the border authorities across Europe must remain ready and flexible to address these evolving challenges effectively. Our commitment is to protect Europe’s borders while upholding the highest standards of humanity and cooperation.