Nearly 8,000 people died or went missing on migration routes in 2025, with sea crossings to Europe remaining the deadliest, according to new figures released by the United Nations.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) said 7,904 deaths and disappearances were recorded last year, down from a record 9,197 in 2024. However, the agency noted the decline was partly due to around 1,500 suspected cases that could not be verified because of aid cuts.
Maria Moita, who leads the IOM’s humanitarian and response department, said the figures reflect a wider failure to prevent such deaths.
A significant share of the fatalities occurred on sea routes towards Europe, many involving so-called “invisible shipwrecks,” where entire boats disappear without trace. The report said more than 40% of deaths and disappearances took place on routes to Europe.
It also highlighted shifting migration patterns, with Bangladeshi nationals becoming the largest group of arrivals in Europe, while Syrian arrivals declined due to political and policy changes.
Other major routes also recorded high fatalities, including the West African route towards the north, which accounted for around 1,200 deaths. Asia reported record levels of deaths, including hundreds of Rohingya refugees fleeing violence in Myanmar or overcrowded camps in Bangladesh.
Overall, more than 82,000 people have died or gone missing on migration routes since 2014, with an estimated 340,000 family members affected. IOM Director General Amy Pope said migration routes are changing in response to conflict, climate pressures and policy shifts, but risks remain severe. She added that behind the figures are individuals taking dangerous journeys and families left without answers, stressing the need for better data to improve safety and develop legal migration pathways.