Morocco Prevents 78,685 Migrant Crossings to Europe in 2024

In 2024, Morocco intercepted 78,685 migrants attempting to enter the European Union, marking a 4.6% increase from the previous year, according to the Interior Ministry. The rise has been attributed to growing migratory pressures from an unstable regional environment, with 58% of those intercepted originating from West Africa, 12% from North Africa, and 9% from East and Central Africa. Ongoing conflicts in the Sahel, high unemployment, and climate change are cited as key factors driving migration. Morocco has strengthened cooperation with Spain to combat irregular migration since resolving a diplomatic dispute in 2022. Additionally, Moroccan authorities rescued 18,645 migrants from unseaworthy boats, reflecting a 10.8% increase from 2023. Recent tragedies underscore the dangers of these crossings; last month, as many as 50 migrants were feared drowned while attempting to reach the Canary Islands from West Africa.