In the first two months of 2023, the number of irregular border
crossings reported by national authorities increased to 28 130, roughly in line
with the same period last year. The Central Mediterranean and Western Balkan
routes remain the most active.
In February, nearly 13 800 irregular border crossings were detected at
EU’s external borders*, slightly more than a year ago.
Currently, more than 2 400
standing corps officers and Frontex staff are taking part in various
operational activities. They support EU member states and neighbouring
countries with irregular migration and other challenges at the external
borders.
Key developments- 28 130
irregular border crossings detected in the first two months of 2023
- Central
Mediterranean route accounts for two of every five irregular border crossings
into the EU
- Nationals
of Syria, Côte d'Ivoire, Guinea, Afghanistan and Pakistan account for the
largest number of detections
Top migratory routes
The Central Mediterranean was the most active route in the first
two months of this year with nearly 12 000 irregular border crossings, double
the figure from a year ago. In February, the number of detections on this route
tripled from a year ago to 7 000.
Meanwhile, the Western Balkans saw a significant decrease in
crossings in February thanks to the alignment of Serbia's visa policy with EU
requirements. However, it remains the second most active migratory route into
the European Union with nearly 8 400 detections.
The number of irregular crossings in the
English Channel towards the UK increased in 2023 to more than 5 600, up 82%
compared with the same period in 2022.
Note: The preliminary data presented in this statement refer to the
number of detections of irregular border-crossing at the external borders of
the European Union. The same person may cross the border several times in
different locations at the external border.
*The figure includes other
less active migratory routes not mentioned in this press release. The final
figures may be higher due to delayed reporting.
