A new report by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) paints a grim picture for migrants worldwide, with Afghans leading the list of migrant’s highest death toll.

The report, released on March 26, reveals a staggering increase in Afghan migrant deaths since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021. In 2023 alone, a record-breaking 1,181 Afghan migrants perished on their journeys, exceeding the previous decade’s highest of 733 deaths in 2022.

The data shows a clear correlation between the rise in deaths and the Taliban takeover. Over 70% of documented deaths (2,448) occurred after August 2021, highlighting the perilous situation many Afghans face.

“At least 3,471 Afghan nationals have died on migration routes, the vast majority of whom (2,448) died fleeing to neighboring countries since the onset of the most recent conflict in August 2021.” According to the new IOM report.

The deadliest route for Afghan migrants appears to be the border with Iran, with at least 287 deaths recorded in 2023.

“But this is likely due to the availability of data on Afghan remains repatriated from that country, rather than an indication that Iran is more deadly for Afghans than other neighboring countries with significant migration flows”; IOM has stated in its latest report.

Globally, the IOM estimates over 8,500 migrant deaths in 2023. Afghanistan is followed by Myanmar, where at least 443 Rohingya refugees died fleeing violence.

“Of those whose country of origin is recorded in the MMP database, more than one-third were from countries in conflict.”

The report underscores the human cost of unsafe migration, with over 63,000 deaths and disappearances globally in the past decade. This number is likely much higher, especially for women and children, due to difficulties in identifying those lost along the way.

Drowning at sea remains the leading cause of migrant death, claiming 60% of the total fatalities. Over 27,000 lives have been lost in the Mediterranean alone.

The IOM urges the international community to strengthen search and rescue efforts, establish safe migration routes, and combat human trafficking networks to prevent further tragedies.