IOM Reports Nearly 8,000 Migrant Deaths Globally in 2025

The International Organization for Migration reported that nearly 8,000 migrants died or went missing worldwide in 2025, with Afghans and Rohingya nationals accounting for the highest number of casualties. Agency officials stated that the figures reflect a deteriorating global situation, despite shifts in migration routes driven by armed conflicts, climate pressures, and changing border policies.

According to IOM officials, the 2025 death toll represents a decline from the 9,197 fatalities recorded in 2024. However, authorities cautioned that the decrease likely stems from reporting and verification gaps rather than an actual reduction in risks, noting that approximately 1,500 cases remain unverified. The highest mortality rate was recorded across Asia. IOM Director General Amy Pope and spokesperson Maria Moita emphasized that migration dangers persist regardless of route changes, and called for strengthened international cooperation ahead of a global migration review summit scheduled for May.

Since the agency began tracking migrant fatalities in 2014, cumulative deaths and disappearances have surpassed 82,000, directly impacting an estimated 340,000 family members. Officials noted that irregular migration from Afghanistan has been largely driven by the political changes following the Taliban’s return to power. The agency reiterated that addressing the root causes of displacement and improving data collection are critical to preventing further loss of life along transit corridors.