Illegal entries to EU countries increased in the first three months
The number of people illegally entering the borders of EU countries has reached the highest level since 2016. According to the statement made by Frontex, in 2022, approximately 330 thousand people entered EU countries illegally. This is a significant increase compared to the previous year.
The most used route for illegal entrances in the first quarter of this year was the Central Mediterranean, where 27 thousand 651 people entered EU countries. This route has recorded an increase of 305 percent compared to the same period of the previous year. Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, and Pakistan citizens were the most common nationalities illegally crossing the Central Mediterranean.
The second most commonly used route for illegal entry was the Western Balkans, with Syrians and Afghans using it the most. The number of people entering from this route decreased by 22 percent to 14 thousand 858. The third most commonly used route was the Eastern Mediterranean, with Syrians, Palestinians, and Afghans being the most frequent users. This route recorded an 8 percent decrease, with 6 thousand 11 people entering from this route in the first quarter of this year.
Frontex’s report also revealed that illegal entry to EU countries increased by 26 percent, reaching 54 thousand in the first quarter of the year compared to the same period of the previous year.
These figures show the ongoing challenge faced by EU countries in managing and securing their borders. Migration policies and measures will continue to be a topic of discussion and debate for EU policymakers.
