This figure represents a significant decrease compared to the 10,457 deaths recorded the previous year. However, activists caution that the reduction in fatalities does not necessarily indicate improved conditions for migrants. Helena Maleno, the NGO's research coordinator, attributed the decline to tighter border controls that have forced migrants to take more dangerous routes.

The implementation of stricter border policing, particularly in Mauritania, is a key factor in the shift. In 2024, the European Union signed a €210 million migration deal with Mauritania, aimed at curbing migration flows. This agreement led to increased surveillance and interception efforts, making it more difficult for migrants to use previously established routes.

The change in migration patterns highlights a complex ethical dilemma. While AI-driven technologies, such as advanced surveillance systems and predictive policing algorithms, can be deployed to manage borders more effectively, they also raise concerns about human rights and the potential for unintended consequences. For example, AI algorithms used to predict migration patterns may be biased based on historical data, leading to discriminatory enforcement practices. The use of facial recognition technology at borders also raises privacy concerns.

The situation underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to migration that addresses the root causes of displacement, such as poverty, conflict, and climate change. It also calls for international cooperation to ensure safe and legal pathways for migration, as well as humane treatment of migrants and asylum seekers.

The Caminando Fronteras report serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of migration policies. The organization continues to monitor the situation and advocate for the rights of migrants, calling for greater transparency and accountability in border management practices. The ongoing debate surrounding migration policies and the use of AI in border control is expected to continue into 2026, with increased scrutiny from human rights organizations and international bodies.