This figure represents a significant decrease compared to the 10,457 deaths recorded in the previous 12 months. However, activists caution that the reduction in fatalities does not necessarily indicate improved conditions for migrants. Helena Maleno, Caminando Fronteras' research coordinator, stated that tighter border controls have forced migrants to take increasingly dangerous routes.

The decrease in fatalities is largely attributed to stricter border policing, particularly in Mauritania. In 2024, Mauritania signed a €210 million migration deal with the European Union, which led to increased surveillance and interception of migrant vessels. This development highlights the complex interplay between international agreements, border security, and the safety of vulnerable populations.

While tighter border controls may have reduced the overall number of crossings, they have also pushed migrants towards more perilous routes, increasing the risk of capsizing and other maritime disasters. For example, in a separate incident this year, 69 people drowned when a migrant boat capsized off the coast of Mauritania.

The situation underscores the ethical considerations surrounding the use of AI and technology in border control. While AI-powered surveillance systems can enhance border security by identifying and tracking potential crossings, they also raise concerns about privacy, bias, and the potential for unintended consequences. The deployment of such technologies requires careful consideration of their impact on human rights and the need for transparency and accountability.

The EU's approach to migration, which increasingly relies on partnerships with countries like Mauritania, has been criticized by human rights organizations for potentially externalizing border control and shifting responsibility for migrant protection to countries with weaker human rights records. These partnerships often involve financial incentives in exchange for stricter border enforcement, raising questions about the EU's commitment to upholding international law and protecting the rights of migrants.

The Caminando Fronteras report serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of migration and the urgent need for safer and more humane migration policies. The organization continues to monitor migration routes and advocate for the rights of migrants, calling for greater international cooperation to address the root causes of migration and provide safe and legal pathways for those seeking refuge or economic opportunity. The ongoing situation will likely continue to fuel debate within the EU and among member states regarding the best approach to managing migration flows while upholding humanitarian principles.