Geneva, Sept. 18 (SANA)The number ofmigrantsand refugees reaching Europe by sea has fallen 39% so far this year, while deaths and disappearances on maritime routes have increased, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said.

About 60,000 people arrived by sea since the start of the year, down from 98,040 during the same period in 2025, according to an IOM report published Thursday.

The sharpest decline was on theCentral Mediterraneanroute to Italy, where arrivals fell 55% year on year.

At least 2,292 migrants died or went missing while attempting to reach Europe across the Mediterranean and Atlantic, compared with 1,999 during the same period last year.

Deaths on the Eastern Mediterranean route, particularly toward Greece, rose to 417 from 284.

The IOM said the figures covered verified incidents through Sept. 15 and warned that the actual toll could be higher because many shipwrecks and disappearances go unreported.

IOM Director General Amy Pope called for international cooperation to protect migrants, combat trafficking and exploitation, and expand safe and regular migration pathways.

The organization said recent talks with European partners underscored the need for a region-wide approach to migration.

TheEuropean Parliamenton June 17 adopted the “Return Regulation,” aimed at accelerating the return of irregular migrants and expanding authorities’ powers over detention and returns. Supporters say the measure would strengthen border management, while opponents argue it places greater emphasis on enforcement at the expense of humanitarian obligations.kA/ABD