Mauritania's Migrant Crackdown Drastically Cuts Europe Arrivals

The Migrant Situation in Mauritania

Mauritania has become a key transit point for migrants attempting to reach Europe. The country's government has responded to pressure from the European Union to curb migration, leading to a significant decrease in arrivals to the Canary Islands.

Mauritania's Pushback Policy

The Mauritanian government has begun a mass deportation campaign targeting undocumented migrants. This has led to numerous arrests and deportations, with some migrants reporting being beaten in detention and having their valuables stolen.

The Impact on Migrants

Migrants in Mauritania are now living in fear of being deported or forced to pay bribes to avoid arrest. Many have resorted to hiding in the shadows, sneaking out at dusk and creeping back in the dark. Some have reported being arrested multiple times and having to pay large sums of money to be released.

Migrant Departures from Mauritania Plummet

The number of migrants leaving Mauritania has dropped significantly since the government's crackdown began. According to migrant advocacy group Caminando Fronteras, migrant arrivals to the Canary Islands from Mauritania dropped by more than 80 percent between April and December 2025 compared to the previous year.

The Future of Migration

As migrants continue to find ways to survive in Mauritania, many are now looking for alternative routes to Europe. Some are leaving from further down the coast, such as The Gambia and Guinea, which can make the journey even more treacherous.