• The number of irregular border crossings into the EU fell by 38% in 2024, reaching the lowest level since 2021.
• Notably, crossings from Belarus and Russia increased by 192%, raising concerns for Eastern EU borders.
• The EU's Central Mediterranean route saw a 59% decrease in arrivals, attributed to reduced departures from North Africa.
• Despite the overall decline, the Western African route saw an 18% rise in migrant arrivals to the Canary Islands.
• The issue of irregular migration continues to provoke significant political discourse across the EU.

According to the European Union's border agency, Frontex, irregular migration into the EU dropped sharply by **38% in 2024**, marking the lowest level of crossings since 2021. This reduction is largely attributed to enhanced cooperation between EU member states and partner nations aimed at dismantling human smuggling networks. Statistics released by Frontex indicate there were just over **239,000 irregular border crossings**, a stark contrast to previous years, as the bloc contends with the implications of unregulated immigration amidst rising political tensions and election campaigns targeting this sensitive issue.

Despite this overall reduction, there has been a **dramatic rise of 192% in irregular crossings from Belarus and Russia**, which now total approximately **17,000** cases. This spike has heightened accusations that these nations are weaponizing migration to exert geopolitical pressure on the EU, particularly in light of the surrounding instability. Frontex highlighted that while fewer migrants crossed through paths like the Central Mediterranean — which experienced a **59% drop due to decreased departures from Tunisia and Libya** — the dynamics continue to shift, making certain routes riskier and more turbulent.

Moreover, while the Central Mediterranean route saw significant reductions, the **Eastern Mediterranean route** recorded a **14% increase in crossings**, driven primarily by new corridors from eastern Libya. Additionally, arrivals along the **Western African route** to the Canary Islands surged **18%**, a reflection of the intense migration pressures from regions like Mauritania.

"While 2024 saw a significant reduction in irregular border crossings, it also highlighted emerging risks and shifting dynamics," stated Frontex Executive Director Hans Leijtens. He emphasized that EU authorities must remain adaptable to effectively counter evolving challenges posed by smugglers and geopolitical situations.

The ongoing discourse surrounding irregular migration remains a dominant theme in European political arenas, especially with upcoming elections in countries such as Germany and Austria. Far-right parties are leveraging concerns over migration to gain support, underscoring the intricate relationship between migration patterns and political sentiment within Europe. For more comprehensive insights, you can view the original reports by Reuters, Al Jazeera, and AP News.