The deadliest month for this year was October for Aegean crossings, as stated in a statement by United Nations High Commission for them Refugeesexpressing deep sorrow at the continued loss of life.

“In the most recent incident, on October 27, four people drowned and 31 were rescued after a shipwreck off Lesvos. This tragic incident raises to 15 the number of deaths in Aegean this month, after seven separate incidents took place near the Lesbos, Samos, Rhodes, Chios and the Pharmacy. Almost half of the deaths recorded in the Aegean in 2025 occurred during October.

Many of the people attempting these dangerous sea crossings are fleeing conflict, persecution and serious human rights abuses. So far this year, 37 people have lost their lives and at least nine are missing in 24 separate incidents in the Aegean. Tragic loss of human life that could have been avoided,” the UN agency said.

And he notes: “Although this year’s arrivals in Europe have decreased compared to 2024, Mr number of deaths in the sea it remains alarmingly high. Along the Mediterranean and West African sea routes, more than 1,600 people are dead or missing this year, compared to a total of 3,530 last year.

UNHCR continues to call for a coherent response that addresses all stages of displacement. This means increased support to countries hosting the most refugees close to their countries of origin, enhanced protection and more aid and solutions along the routes.

It also means more safe and legal alternatives for refugees and migrants if they need to move. Strong international cooperation remains critical. So are efforts to resolve conflicts and ensure respect for human rights so that people are not forced to risk their lives in search of safety.”

“This latest tragedy occurred one day before the tenth anniversary of one of the deadliest shipwrecks in the Aegean. On October 28, 2015a wooden boat carrying hundreds of people capsized north of Lesvos, resulting in at least 70 people lost their lives, including 20 children. The efforts of all involved in the often difficult search and rescue operations are commendable. However, ten years after the October 2015 shipwreck, the fact that such tragedies continue to recur highlights the urgent need for concerted action to stop lives being lost at sea“, he concludes.