Irregular migration into the European Union decreased significantly in 2024, dropping by 38% compared to past years, according to data from the EU border agency Frontex.

Illegal border crossings totaled just over 239,000, marking the lowest level since 2021, when migration was heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The decline in irregular migration was ascribed to enhanced cooperation among EU member states and international partners in fighting smuggling networks.

This collaborative approach, along with proactive border management strategies, has been key to lowering the overall number of crossings.

Frontex’s report indicated that the reduction in migration was particularly significant along the Central Mediterranean and Western Balkan routes.

The Central Mediterranean route, a long-standing busy corridor for migrants, experienced a 59% decrease in arrivals.

This reduction was mainly due to fewer departures from Tunisia and Libya, two major departure points for migrants attempting to reach Europe.

Similarly, the Western Balkan route saw a 78% decline, attributed to coordinated efforts by countries in the region to control and restrict migratory flows.

Despite these reductions, new migration patterns have appeared, highlighting shifting dynamics and potential future challenges.

Notably, Frontex reported a significant increase in irregular crossings from the EU’s borders with Belarus and Russia, which rose by 192% to reach 17,000 people.

This increase suggests a potential new route for migrants entering the EU, with Belarus and Russia becoming increasingly important as departure points.

Alongside the rise in crossings from the eastern frontier, there was also a noticeable increase in arrivals via the Eastern Mediterranean route.

This route experienced a 14% increase in attempts, with 69,400 cases recorded.

Migrants from countries like Syria, Afghanistan, and Egypt were mainly responsible for this shift, as new corridors emerged from eastern Libya.

Additionally, the Western African route, leading to the Canary Islands, also saw a rise in migrant numbers, with an 18% increase in arrivals.

Frontex highlighted that this was largely due to more departures from Mauritania, on Africa’s western coast.

As irregular migration continues to be a major topic in European political discourse, especially among far-right and populist parties, Frontex’s report emphasizes the complexities of this issue.

Migration has become a central theme in upcoming elections across Europe, including in Germany, where political parties campaign on promises to tighten migration controls.

Hans Leijtens, the head of Frontex, acknowledged the progress made in reducing irregular crossings but warned about emerging risks and new migration routes that could present future challenges.

He stated, “While 2024 saw a significant reduction in irregular border crossings, it also highlighted emerging risks and shifting dynamics.”

The shift in migration routes and the ongoing influx of migrants, despite overall reductions, indicate that European authorities must remain vigilant in addressing evolving migration patterns.

While cooperation and border security efforts have achieved progress, the dynamics of global migration continue to present complex challenges for the EU and its member states.