Geneva: The year 2024 marked the deadliest on record for migrants in Asia, with at least 2,514 lives lost along the region's perilous migration routes, according to new data from the UN International Organisation for Migration (IOM). This represents a 59% increase from the 1,584 deaths recorded in 2023, highlighting the worsening dangers faced by people on the move.
According to Emirates News Agency, Iori Kato, IOM Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "No one should lose their life in pursuit of safety or a better future." He stressed the need for safe and regular migration pathways, noting that these are preventable tragedies.
Lack of identification of migrants was also a major concern, with over 1,000 of those who died in 2024 remaining unidentified. Among the documented deaths, 1,086 were men, 205 were women, and 217 children. Kato highlighted the issue of underreporting, mentioning that the available data does not fully capture the true number of lives lost during migration in Asia. He added that the lack of identifying details has immeasurable effects on families searching for lost relatives.
The complexities of migration in Asia are driven by factors such as economic inequality, conflict, and environmental issues, exacerbated by climate change. However, limited legal pathways have forced many to rely on irregular and highly dangerous routes.