The number of irregular migrants entering the European Union has dropped significantly in the first five months of 2025, according to data from the EU border agency Frontex. Approximately 63,700 people crossed EU borders irregularly between January and May, a decrease of 20% compared to the same period in 2024.
The Central Mediterranean route remains the most frequently used corridor, while the Western Balkan route has recorded the sharpest decline. Frontex attributes the overall drop to several factors: increased border controls, enhanced migration cooperation with countries of origin and transit, particularly Mauritania, and poor weather conditions in key departure zones. Joint Spanish-Moroccan patrols have also disrupted smuggling operations near the Canary Islands.
Migration: political discourse shifts despite lower arrivals
Despite the downward trend in irregular arrivals, the political debate on migration in many EU countries remains tense. Calls for stricter immigration rules and reinforced border policies continue to dominate public discourse. Right-wing and centrist politicians across the continent have intensified their focus on migration as a perceived threat, even in the face of declining arrivals.
This apparent disconnect between migration data and political rhetoric has raised concerns among analysts and civil society organisations. Many argue that energy and resources should be redirected towards expanding legal migration channels and improving integration programmes for those already residing in Europe.
Integration and legal pathways still underfunded
While EU-level and national policies have increasingly prioritised border security, critics point out that legal pathways for migration remain limited and fragmented. In parallel, integration measures, such as language education, employment support and housing access, receive comparatively less political and financial attention.
The ongoing focus on deterrence over inclusion may undermine long-term social cohesion. Experts warn that without serious investment in inclusive migration policies, the EU risks fostering marginalisation and public resentment, regardless of actual arrival numbers.
