The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has reported that 144 migrants attempting to reach Europe are dead or missing following a series of “tragic maritime incidents” off the coast of Mauritania last week, according to a press release. Many of those affected were refugees who had spent 25 days stranded on a boat that departed The Gambia bound for Spain’s Canary Islands. The incident underscores the persistent dangers of one of the world’s deadliest sea corridors.
Between 14 and 18 July, UNHCR, national authorities and humanitarian partners were present at three disembarkations that brought 387 people safely ashore. Rescue efforts culminated in an operation on 18 July, where teams found 38 survivors and 143 dead or missing. Among the survivors that day were two children who lost their entire families at sea. The Atlantic route between the West African mainland and the Canary Islands remains extremely hazardous. Long distances, unpredictable ocean conditions, unseaworthy overcrowded boats and limited access to timely rescue all contribute to the risks.
Refugees face dangerous conditions
UNHCR noted that many of those attempting the crossing embark more than 2,000 km from their intended destination. Arrivals to the Canary Islands dropped by 61 per cent this year compared to the first half of 2025, with 4,400 arrivals recorded by 15 July. Similarly, arrivals to Europe by sea on the major routes fell from 65,407 last year to more than 40,000 this year. Despite the decline, deaths and disappearances at sea continue at alarming levels, often without significant public attention. Many boats carrying refugees have vanished at sea entirely.
“The incidents highlight the persistent risks faced by refugees and migrants attempting to reach Europe, many of whom are embarking over 2,000 km away from their intended destination,” the agency stated. UNHCR emphasized the need to address the root causes driving refugees and migrants to flee their home countries. The agency urged countries to consider “meaningful and quicker access to legal pathways through higher resettlement quotas, increased labour opportunities and education pathways as alternatives to the dangerous sea crossings.” These measures are presented as viable alternatives to perilous sea journeys.
Call for action
UNHCR continues to assist with rescues in Mauritania and elsewhere along the route. So far this year, 17 boats carrying migrants have disembarked in Nouadhibou and Nouakchott, Mauritania, with a total of 2,147 individuals rescued. The agency reiterated its call for expanded legal pathways to reduce reliance on dangerous crossings. It also stressed the importance of sustained international attention on the ongoing loss of life at sea. The recent tragedy off the Mauritanian coast stands as a stark reminder of the humanitarian stakes involved.
