International Organization for Migration Reports Tens of Thousands of Deaths in Mediterranean Sea Since 2014
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has reported that nearly 27,000 individuals have died in the Central Mediterranean since 2014 while attempting to reach European territory. This year alone, at least 872 deaths have been recorded in the Central Mediterranean, though some civil society groups suggest higher figures. The perilous journey, typically from Libya or Tunisia to Italy or Malta, is undertaken by people fleeing war, poverty, persecution, and other challenges primarily from Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Many of these individuals may have a legal right to protection in Europe, while others, including climate change refugees, might not. Bad weather conditions earlier in the year contributed to numerous drownings, with bodies washing ashore in Sicily and Calabria, Italy. Despite a drop in sea arrivals to Italy last year compared to 2023, civil society organizations believe the number of people attempting the journey remains consistent. 
