(Ecofin Agency) - Senegal serves as a key transit hub for migrants heading to Europe. In 2023, nearly 12,833 migrants reached Spain, with 9,319 identifying as Senegalese nationals, according to Senegal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

European Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen, announced the disbursement of €30 million (about $32.5 million) to help Senegal combat irregular migration. The official announced it on October 17 on X.

We want Senegalese young people to flourish and stop the tragedies at the sea.

I announced a new ?? €30 million package that contributes to preventing irregular departures.

It will strengthen capacity to provide relief to migrants, fight trafficking, and raise awareness. pic.twitter.com/Kfj3meBKZW

— Jutta Urpilainen (@JuttaUrpilainen) October 17, 2024

The funding aims to boost Senegal's ability to support migrants, fight human trafficking, and raise awareness about the dangers of illegal migration. “We want Senegalese young people to flourish and stop the tragedies at the sea,” Urpilainen stated.

According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), in 2018, the Western Mediterranean route from West Africa to Spain became the most-used pathway to Europe, with over 58,000 arrivals, compared to just 5,300 in 2015 and 22,100 in 2017. Senegal was one of the leading countries of origin for migrants from West Africa, following Guinea, Mali, Côte d'Ivoire, and The Gambia.

Irregular migration from Senegal to Europe has risen significantly in recent years. In 2023, nearly 12,833 migrants arrived in Spain, with 9,319 identifying as Senegalese nationals, according to Senegal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In response to this growing issue, Senegal introduced its first-ever strategy in 2023 to drastically reduce irregular migration by 2033. The plan focuses on educating the public across the country, tightening controls, and monitoring land, sea, and air borders.

The IOM report also revealed that between January and December 2023, 39,910 migrants reached the Canary Islands by boat from West Africa, a 155% increase from 2022 when 15,682 made the journey.