Significant rise in irregular border crossings in 2023

(ANSA) - BELGRADE, JAN 16 - According to preliminary Frontex calculations, the number of irregular border crossings at the EU's external border will reach around 380,000 in 2023, owing to an increase in arrivals via the Mediterranean region. This is the highest level since 2016 and represents a 17% increase over figures from 2022, according to Frontex. The Central Mediterranean was the most popular migratory route into the EU in 2023, accounting for two out of every five irregular crossings (41%), followed by the Western Balkans (26%), and the Eastern Mediterranean (16%). (ANSA).