UK Channel Migrant Crossings Since 2018 Surpass 150,000

The milestone highlights ongoing challenges for the Labour government, which has pledged to dismantle smuggling networks and reduce crossings.

Over 150,000 migrants have crossed the Channel since 2018, with 858 arriving on Christmas and Boxing Day alone in 2024.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has prioritized international cooperation to target smuggling gangs and enhance border security measures.
The number of crossings in 2024 has risen 22% compared to 2023 but remains 22% lower than the record high in 2022.
This year has seen 50 migrant deaths during Channel crossings, marking the deadliest year since the crisis began.
Labour has criticized the previous Conservative government for its handling of the crisis, while the opposition blames Labour for scrapping the Rwanda deportation plan.