Asia witnessed its deadliest year for migrants in 2024, with at least 2,514 lives lost. This marks a 59% surge from 2023. In that year, 1,584 fatalities were recorded, according to the UN International Organization for Migration (IOM).
“No one should lose their life seeking safety. No one should lose their life seeking a better future,” said Iori Kato, IOM Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific. He stressed the urgent need for safer migration routes to prevent further tragedies.
Rohingya and Afghan Migrants at Highest Risk
The alarming rise in deaths primarily affected two vulnerable groups: Rohingya fleeing Myanmar and Afghans escaping conflict.
- Afghan migrants: At least 1,517 died in transit, marking a 39% increase from 2023.
- Rohingya migrants: Fatalities more than doubled, rising to 889 from 436 the previous year.
- Deadliest incident: On August 5, 2024, artillery fire killed over 150 people. They were crossing the Naf River from Myanmar to Bangladesh.
Dangers Along Migration Routes
Migrants face severe risks beyond conflict-related violence. Perils include:
- Overcrowded and unsafe boats
- Abuse by smugglers
- Harsh weather conditions
- Border violence
These dangers force many into life-threatening situations as they attempt to reach safety.
The Crisis of Missing Migrants
Over 1,000 migrant deaths in 2024 remain unidentified. Among documented cases:
- 1,086 were men
- 205 were women
- 217 were children
Lack of official reporting means the true death toll could be even higher. “Families are left searching for lost relatives without answers,” Kato said.
Asia’s Most Perilous Migration Routes
Migration in Asia is fueled by economic hardship, conflict, and climate change. Nevertheless, limited legal pathways force many to use dangerous routes.
1. Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea
Rohingya and Bangladeshi migrants risk their lives in treacherous sea journeys. Many pay smugglers for passage, only to end up stranded on overcrowded boats with little food and water. Crew members often subject them to violence, while destination countries push them back.
2. Overland Routes
Routes across South and Southeast Asia, like Nepal to India and Afghanistan through Iran and Turkey, are fraught with:
- Extreme weather
- Exploitation by traffickers
- Border violence
3. The Declining Australia Route
Once a key migration path, Australia’s strict border policies have significantly reduced crossings. Migrants now remain stranded in transit countries with no legal protection, healthcare, or education access, making them vulnerable to further exploitation.
Urgent Need for Safe Migration Solutions
IOM urges governments to establish safer migration pathways. Without action, Asia’s migrant crisis will continue to escalate, putting thousands of lives at risk. “These deaths are preventable,” Kato emphasized.
The rising toll highlights the critical need for international cooperation in addressing migration safety and protecting vulnerable populations.