Irregular crossings at Europe’s borders have fallen by 30 per cent in the first quarter of 2025 compared with the same period last year, according to Frontex, the EU’s border and coast guard agency.
Crossings declined on all major migratory routes, especially those that connect Albania, Serbia, Montenegro and North Macedonia (down 64 per cent).
Attempts to cross the Channel into the UK were also slightly down (4 per cent) but they have become more successful overall.
Home Office data shows that small boat arrivals increased by 42 per cent (8,888) this year, compared with the first quarter of last year.
The numbers seem to align with a downward trend seen in 2024, when irregular border crossings into Europe dropped by 38 per cent year-on-year.
Human rights groups argue Europe’s stricter policies means more migrants are being detained in north African countries.
Warmer weather is likely to increase the number of migrant crossings in the coming months.
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