Canary Islands Record Highest-Ever Migrant Arrivals in 2024

Over 41,000 migrants have reached the Spanish archipelago this year, surpassing previous records and straining local resources.

A total of 41,425 migrants arrived in Spain's Canary Islands between January and November 2024, exceeding last year's record of 39,910 arrivals.
The Atlantic route to the Canaries has grown in popularity due to increased Mediterranean border controls, despite its dangers and high death tolls.
The regional government reports being overwhelmed by the influx, particularly with the rise in unaccompanied minors requiring care.
Spain's government has initiated discussions on redistributing migrant care responsibilities across the country, though progress has been slow.
Efforts to curb migration include a recent tour by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to West African nations and calls for the EU's Frontex agency to resume surveillance operations in key departure areas.