• Two women died while crossing the Channel on a makeshift boat from France to the UK.
• Approximately 60 others were rescued in the same incident off Neufchâtel-Hardelot.
• At least 25 people have died this year in similar crossing attempts.
• The UK and France have established a "one in, one out" returns deal to discourage crossings.
• The ongoing migrant crisis sees many risking their lives for safety in the UK.

Two women tragically lost their lives attempting to cross the English Channel from France to the United Kingdom on Saturday, with the incident occurring off the coast of Neufchâtel-Hardelot. French authorities reported that around 100 individuals were on a makeshift boat, with about 60 others rescued thanks to immediate response efforts, according to Le Monde and BBC.

Among those rescued, a couple and their child were hospitalized due to moderate hypothermia after the perilous attempt. This incident raises the total number of fatalities during Channel crossings in 2025 to at least 25, a significant increase compared to last year, as the conditions remain treacherous for migrants, according to Dawn and India Times.

Under a recent Franco-British agreement, the UK can return migrants deemed ineligible for asylum shortly after their arrival, a measure designed to deter crossings. In exchange, the UK will accept a similar number of migrants from France with likely successful asylum claims. However, authorities note that this policy does not sufficiently discourage the dangerous journey, as many migrants are fleeing dire situations, according to Le Monde and BBC.