migrants crossing the Mediterranean in record numbers

The number of illegal immigrants attempting the central Mediterranean route into the EU rose to a record 42,165 in the first four months of 2023, according to Frontex. Frontex chief Hans Leijtens blamed the rise on competition between human traffickers pushing down the price of a crossing. In 2023, the top five countries of origin are Ivory Coast, Guinea, Egypt, unknown nations, and Pakistan. Human rights groups have accused Frontex of illegally pushing back migrant boats, but Leijtens denied the claims. A number of EU countries have demanded that the bloc do more to fortify its external borders against illegal entry.