Irregular border crossings into the European Union fell by 37% in the first seven months of 2026 compared with the same period last year, with approximately 61,000 detections recorded at the EU’s external borders. These figures do not reflect the exceptional events at the external borders in Ceuta, Spain at the end of July — Frontex reports.
Most major migratory routes recorded fewer crossings than in 2025, the Eastern Mediterranean and Central Mediterranean were the busiest way to enter into EU. The Western African route recorded the steepest decline, while the Western Mediterranean was the only major route to record an increase.
“The overall decrease recorded so far reflects a number of factors, including continued cooperation with partner countries and preventive measures in key countries of departure that have contributed to reducing departures towards Europe” — Frontex reports.
With around 3,800 officers deployed at the EU’s external borders, Frontex continues to support national authorities in managing Europe’s borders and saving lives at sea. Frontex officers also continue to support Member States in implementing the new rules under the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum.
