Spain’s Canary Islands witnessed a record-breaking influx of 46,843 migrants in 2024, marking the second consecutive year of unprecedented arrivals via the treacherous Atlantic route. Official figures released on Thursday revealed a sharp increase in irregular migration to the islands, which have become the focal point of Europe’s migration crisis.
In total, Spain received 63,970 irregular migrants last year, a significant rise from the 56,852 recorded in 2023. The majority arrived in the Canary Islands, underscoring the growing shift towards the perilous Atlantic crossing as tighter Mediterranean controls force migrants to seek alternative routes.
The surge comes amid a broader decline in irregular crossings into the European Union. According to EU border agency Frontex, such crossings fell by 40 percent between January and November 2024. However, the Atlantic route saw a 19 percent increase, driven primarily by migrants from Mali, Senegal, and Morocco.
The latest figures confirm data from December, which showed the Canaries breaking their annual record for migrant arrivals by November. The 2024 tally surpassed the 39,910 arrivals in 2023, which itself had shattered a previous record set in 2006 during the height of Spain’s migration crisis.
Despite the record for the Canary Islands, Spain’s overall migrant arrivals for 2024 fell short of the 64,298 recorded in 2018. However, the sharp increase in Atlantic crossings highlights the shifting dynamics of migration into Europe and the growing challenges for authorities in managing the crisis.
The Atlantic route has become infamous for its dangers. Migrants embarking on this journey face overcrowded and poorly equipped boats, unpredictable weather, and strong ocean currents. Humanitarian organizations have reported rising death tolls, with many lives lost at sea. The United Nations estimates that thousands of migrants attempting this route have died or disappeared in recent years.
Spain’s response has been multi-faceted, combining increased patrols, rescue operations, and diplomatic efforts with countries of origin and transit. However, the continuous rise in arrivals has strained local resources in the Canary Islands, where reception centers are overwhelmed. Authorities are calling for more support from the European Union to share the burden and address the root causes of migration.
The rising numbers reflect a growing desperation among migrants fleeing conflict, poverty, and climate change in West Africa. Many view the Canary Islands as a gateway to Europe, despite the risks. For those who survive the journey, arrival is often only the beginning of a long and uncertain process.
Amidst this surge, the record figures from 2024 reveals a stark reminder of the complex and human dimension of migration. Behind the numbers are stories of hope, loss, and resilience, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated international action to address the challenges driving migration and to ensure safe, humane solutions for those seeking a better life.
