The International Organization for Migration has reported that nearly 7,900 people lost their lives while migrating in 2025, with a further 1,500 still unaccounted for.

80,000 Deaths Since 2014

The UN-affiliated organization stated in an official release that since 2014, a total of 80,000 people have died or gone missing in the course of migration.

The True Toll May Be Far Higher

IOM humanitarian response and recovery director Maria Moita, speaking at a press briefing in Geneva, warned that "these figures reflect a collective failure to prevent avoidable tragedies," adding that the numbers account for only a fraction of the actual lives lost and that urgent action is needed to prevent further deaths. 

The Deadliest Migration Routes

According to the organization, the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean remain the most dangerous routes used by people fleeing their countries.

A Slight Decline from 2024

IOM recorded 9,200 migration-related deaths in 2024, making last year's figure of 7,900 a modest but notable decrease by comparison.