Accra:European Union The European Union experienced a significant decrease in irregular border crossings during the first nine months of 2026, with detections falling by nearly one-third compared to the same period in the previous year. Preliminary data from Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, indicated that just over 91,000 crossings were recorded.
According to Emirates News Agency, this decline occurred across almost all major migratory routes, reflecting ongoing cooperation with partner countries and preventive measures in key departure areas. These efforts have contributed to a reduction in the number of boats heading towards Europe.
In September, around 14,300 crossings were detected, marking a 28% decrease from September 2025. However, this figure represented an 11% increase from August, as conditions improved along the main sea corridors. This period also marked the first full summer under the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, which implements a standardized screening process at the EU's external borders. Frontex officers assist member states by establishing the nationality of arrivals, collecting biometric data, and verifying documents.
Hans Leijtens, Frontex Executive Director, noted that fewer people are attempting the journey on most routes into Europe, a trend that has persisted through summer and into autumn. However, he cautioned that conditions can change rapidly, as demonstrated by detections on the Atlantic route to the Canary Islands, which were four times higher in September than in August. Leijtens emphasized that smuggling networks remain active and adaptable, requiring continued vigilance.
The Eastern and Central Mediterranean routes remained the busiest, accounting for nearly 60% of all irregular entries into the EU. The Central Mediterranean route experienced the largest decline, with detections down by 56% compared to the previous year. Conversely, the Western Mediterranean route was the only major route to see an increase, with detections rising by 26%. Detections on the Western African route also rose sharply in September, although they remain down by 45% over the nine-month period.