Brussels, Oct. 19 (LaPresse) – In the first nine months of 2026, the number of irregular border crossings into the European Union continued to decline, falling by almost a third compared with the same period the previous year. This is according to preliminary data collected by Frontex, which recorded just over 91,000 crossings. The decline, observed on almost all major migration routes, reflects, according to the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, strong cooperation with partner countries and the adoption of preventive measures in key countries of departure, which continue to reduce the number of boats heading towards Europe. In September alone, approximately 14,300 crossings were detected, 28% fewer than in September 2025, although 11% more than in August, due to improved conditions along the main maritime corridors. This period also coincided with the first full summer under the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, which introduces a single, standardised screening procedure at the Union’s external borders. “On most routes to Europe, the number of people undertaking the journey is declining, a trend confirmed throughout the summer and autumn. However, the situation can change rapidly: in September, detections on the Atlantic route towards the Canary Islands were four times higher than in August. Smuggling networks do not disappear when numbers decline; they move elsewhere and wait for an opportunity. Our task is to be ready when they identify one,” said Frontex Executive Director Hans Leijtens.
Migrants, Frontex: “Irregular Arrivals in the EU Down by a Third in Nine Months”
Brussels, Oct. 19 (LaPresse) – In the first nine months of 2026, the number of irregular border crossings into the European Union continued to decline, falling by almost a third compared with the same period the previous year. This is according to preliminary data collected by Frontex, which recorded just over 91,000 crossings. The decline, observed on almost all major migration routes, reflects, according to the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, strong cooperation with partner countries and the adoption of preventive measures in key countries of departure, which continue to reduce the number of boats heading towards Europe. In September alone, approximately 14,300 crossings were detected, 28% fewer than in September 2025, although 11% more than in August, due to improved conditions along the main maritime corridors. This period also coincided with the first full summer under the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, which introduces a single, standardised screening procedure at the Union’s external borders. “On most routes to Europe, the number of people undertaking the journey is declining, a trend confirmed throughout the summer and autumn. However, the situation can change rapidly: in September, detections on the Atlantic route towards the Canary Islands were four times higher than in August. Smuggling networks do not disappear when numbers decline; they move elsewhere and wait for an opportunity. Our task is to be ready when they identify one,” said Frontex Executive Director Hans Leijtens.