Overview

• The IOM confirmed 8,938 migrant deaths in 2024, the highest annual toll since tracking began in 2014.
• Asia reported the most fatalities with 2,778 deaths, followed by the Mediterranean (2,452) and Africa (2,242).
• Deaths in the Caribbean (341) and Darién jungle crossing between Colombia and Panama (174) reached unprecedented levels.
• Violence, including extortion by smugglers and gangs, accounted for at least 10% of migrant deaths since 2022.
• U.S.-led aid cuts have forced the IOM to suspend lifesaving programs, leaving millions of migrants more vulnerable.