Sea arrivals to Europe down 39% in 2026, but deaths rose to 2,292, IOM says

About 60,000 migrants reached Europe by sea so far in 2026, down 39% from about 98,000 a year earlier, IOM reported Sept. 17. At least 2,292 died or disappeared, up from 1,999. IOM warns the true toll is likely higher, as many boats vanish unrecorded, raising questions about rescue and monitoring as crossings grow deadlier.