WORLD · VERIFIED DEVELOPMENT
Senegal to Spain Migration Route Sees Increase in Irregular Arrivals
WHY IT MATTERS
The increase in irregular arrivals highlights the need for evidence-based interventions to support migrant profiles, movement patterns, and associated risks, ultimately informing strategies to address the root causes of migration and ensure safe and orderly migration.
What happened
A recent report by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has documented a resurgence in irregular migration from or through Senegal to the Canary Islands by sea. The West African-Atlantic Route (WAAR) has seen an overall upward trend in irregular arrivals, with a total of 1,492 migrants recorded on the high seas during the reporting period.
These departures originated from the coasts of Mauritania, Morocco, Senegal, and The Gambia. The IOM has been monitoring key departure points along the Senegalese coastline since 2019, capturing relevant events reported by Community Focal Points (CFPs).
A total of 22 events were reported, including five boat departures, four canoes observed on the high seas, and 962 migrants involved in preparations for departure.
PRIMARY SOURCES
Senegal — Departure Areas Monitoring Tool — Movements to the Canary Islands (December 2025 – January 2026)
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