More than 3,000 migrants die on route to Spain in 2025
Recent data indicates that over 3,000 individuals died while attempting to reach Spain by sea in the past year. This represents a significant decrease compared to the previous year.
Recent data indicates that over 3,000 individuals died while attempting to reach Spain by sea in the past year. This represents a significant decrease compared to the previous year.
According to Caminando Fronteras, 3,090 individuals drowned between January and mid-December 2025, which included 192 women and 437 children. During the same period, Spain's interior ministry reported that just under 36,000 irregular migrants arrived by sea and land, a reduction from over 60,000 the prior year.
The decline in migrant arrivals is largely attributed to enhanced border controls, particularly in Mauritania, a key departure location for those traveling to Spain. Last year, Mauritania entered a €210 million migration agreement with the European Union aimed at reducing departures.
Recent data indicates that over 3,000 individuals died while attempting to reach Spain by sea in the past year.
However, Human Rights Watch has accused Mauritanian authorities of systematic abuses against migrants, including allegations of violence and mistreatment, which the government has strongly denied.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
