Record number of Eritreans fleeing to Britain via the English Channel

In the early months of 2025, more than 1,200 Eritreans crossed the English Channel in small boats, making them the largest group of migrants from any nationality to undertake this perilous journey. This shift marks a significant increase compared to previous years, where Afghans were the predominant group making such crossings. Factors contributing to this rise include a recent drop in smuggling prices and ongoing tensions in Eritrea, particularly the looming threat of war with Ethiopia, which is pushing more migrants to seek refuge abroad. As the conflict in Ethiopia creates a more volatile environment in the region, Eritreans are increasingly compelled to leave their homeland in search of safety and better living conditions in Europe. The journey across the English Channel remains dangerous, yet the improvements in smuggler logistics and reduced costs have rendered it more accessible, attracting a larger wave of economically disadvantaged migrants. Official figures indicate that Eritreans now make up 20% of the total migrant population that has crossed the Channel, which is approximately 6,642 individuals so far this year. This statistic is particularly notable as it highlights the dramatic increase in transits compared to the same period last year. Across Britain, the number of Eritreans seeking asylum has also surged, with approximately 5,500 individuals currently residing in taxpayer-funded accommodations, half of whom are residing in hotels as a temporary measure while their claims are processed. The situation represents not just a trend in migration but also a humanitarian challenge for the UK and Europe, as authorities grapple with the increasing number of arrivals and the implications for healthcare, housing, and social support services. As the crisis unfolds, discussions around the business model of migrant smuggling are intensifying, and governments face the dual challenge of addressing the root causes of this migration while ensuring the safety and well-being of those who decide to undertake such risky endeavors.