Morocco Blocks Nearly 80,000 Irregular Migrants From Reaching Europe in 2024
Morocco Stems the Tide: Nearly 80,000 Irregular Migrants Prevented from Reaching Europe in 2024
Morocco played a significant role in curbing irregular migration to Europe in 2024, preventing nearly 80,000 people from crossing into EU countries. According to the Moroccan Interior Ministry, authorities stopped 78,685 irregular migration attempts, a 4.6% increase compared to 2023, highlighting the growing pressures and complexities of migration within a volatile regional landscape. This figure underscores Morocco’s increasing role as a key transit point and the challenges faced by both migrants and authorities.
The ministry’s response to inquiries from Reuters revealed the diverse origins of these migrants. A majority (58%) hailed from West Africa, while 12% were from North Africa, and another 9% originated from East and Central Africa. This diverse demographic reflects the multifaceted nature of migration, driven by a confluence of factors across the continent. These factors include ongoing conflicts, like those in the Sahel region, which displace populations and create instability; economic hardship and lack of opportunity, which compel individuals to seek better livelihoods elsewhere; and the increasing impact of climate change, which disrupts agricultural practices and livelihoods, particularly in vulnerable communities. For example, the ongoing conflict in the Sahel region has displaced millions, contributing to the flow of migrants seeking refuge and stability. Similarly, the effects of desertification and drought across the continent exacerbate economic hardship and food insecurity, pushing people to seek opportunities abroad.
Morocco’s strategic location on the northwestern coast of Africa makes it a focal point for migration flows towards Europe. Migrants often attempt to reach Europe via the Mediterranean Sea, the Atlantic Ocean, or by scaling the border fences surrounding the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla. The increased cooperation between Morocco and Spain, a key EU member state, in combating irregular migration has been crucial in addressing these challenges. This strengthened partnership, re-established after a diplomatic rift in 2022, has led to increased border security and joint efforts to dismantle human trafficking networks. The importance of this collaboration is highlighted by the fact that Spain is one of the primary entry points for migrants arriving in Europe by sea, according to Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency. Their data consistently shows a significant number of detections in the Western Mediterranean route, which includes crossings from Morocco to Spain.
The Moroccan Interior Ministry reported a significant rise in attempts to cross into Ceuta and Melilla, with 14 mass crossing attempts recorded in 2024 compared to just six in 2023. These attempts often involve large groups of migrants trying to breach the border fences, highlighting the desperation and determination of those seeking entry to Europe. Tragically, these attempts are often fraught with danger, and human rights organizations have documented numerous instances of violence and injuries during these crossings.
Beyond land crossings, Moroccan authorities also played a vital role in maritime rescues. In 2024, they rescued 18,645 potential migrants from precarious boats, a 10.8% increase from 2023. This underscores the perilous journeys undertaken by migrants, often in overcrowded and unsafe vessels. A tragic example of the risks involved occurred just last month, when a migrant boat capsized in the Atlantic while attempting to reach the Canary Islands from West Africa. While official numbers vary, migrant rights organizations estimate that as many as 50 people may have perished in this incident, highlighting the human cost of irregular migration.
The increasing numbers of intercepted migrants and rescues at sea underscore the urgent need for comprehensive and humane solutions to address the root causes of migration. This includes fostering economic development and stability in migrant-origin countries, strengthening international cooperation on migration management, and expanding legal pathways for migration to provide safe and orderly alternatives to dangerous irregular journeys. Organizations like the International Organization for Migration (IOM) are working to support migrants and governments in addressing these complex challenges. Their work includes providing humanitarian assistance, promoting sustainable reintegration programs, and advocating for policies that protect the rights and dignity of all migrants.
