The UN’s International Organization for Migration (IOM) has recorded an alarming record: from January 1 to February 23, 2026, at least 602 people died or went missing in the Central Mediterranean (according to some sources, 606 across all Mediterranean routes). This is the highest death toll to start a year since the IOM began monitoring it in 2014.
Most of the tragedies occurred along the Central Route (from Libya, Tunisia, and Egypt to Italy and Malta), which remains the most dangerous migration route in the world. According to the IOM, a significant number of deaths are related to winter storms (including Cyclone Harry in mid-January), overcrowded and unseaworthy boats, and the actions of smugglers who continue to exploit desperate people.
The most recent major tragedy occurred on the weekend of February 21-22: a vessel departing from Tobruk, Libya, capsized off the coast of Crete, Greece. Twenty people (including four minors) were rescued, the bodies of four victims were found, and at least 30 more remain missing. Greek authorities are continuing the search.
“This is the deadliest start to a year in the Mediterranean in more than a decade,” the IOM stated. “We call for an immediate strengthening of search and rescue operations in the Central Mediterranean, ensuring safe disembarkation, and closer regional cooperation. Smuggling and human trafficking networks continue to profit from human lives, exposing migrants to abuse and mortal risk.”
Experts warn that if this trend continues, 2026 could be one of the deadliest years in the history of the Mediterranean migration crisis. The IOM also emphasizes that the actual death toll is likely higher, as many incidents go unreported.