Large numbers of Somali youth continue to fall victim to illegal migration networks. Over the last two years (2023–2024), the number of people migrating irregularly from Somalia increased to nearly three times that of previous years. Compared to early indications from 2025, the trend remains high and continues to worsen into 2026.
The highest number of deaths has been reported both offshore and inshore along dangerous routes in the Mediterranean and Atlantic Oceans. Organized groups are actively mobilizing and profiting from illegal migration facilitation and human smuggling. In 2025 alone, more than ten boats reportedly sank at sea, each carrying at least 30 people, with total losses exceeding 200 lives.
At the same time, the number of boats rescued by marine forces of neighboring states and by commercial ships in international waters has been higher than the number of boats that capsized due to bad weather or overloading. This indicates both the scale of migration attempts and the extreme risks involved.
The Federal Government of Somalia has been working on the repatriation of Somali youth who became victims of illegal migration and suffered in transit or destination countries. Libya, Algeria, and Sudan have been at the forefront of deportation and repatriation programs, returning several hundred people—approximately 90% of them youth back to Somalia.
In 2026, the number of irregular migrants is increasing further due to new marketing strategies led by social media influencers and cooperative groups, both domestic and foreign, who are engaging in international smuggling deals. Informal and unregulated media platforms, especially on social media, continue to broadcast misleading information, portraying illegal migration as easier, cheaper, and safer.
This deception is being used to recruit new beneficiaries into dangerous migration routes.
As a result, many Somali nationals—both men and women are trapped as victims of illegal migration, facing kidnapping, extortion, abuse, and detention. Many are unable to cross the sea or return home.
Some victims have appealed directly to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the Somali Government, and UNHCR for support. Most of these individuals are currently stranded in various locations in Libya and Tunisia.
There is an urgent need for a coordinated emergency response to address the plight of Somali victims of illegal migration,
immediate implementation of safe relocation and voluntary return programs to Somalia for those who choose to return
the provision of refugee or temporary protection status in Libya and other transit countries for individuals at high risk
strengthening of protection, humanitarian assistance, and sustainable reintegration support to ensure safety, dignity
and long-term recovery for affected youth and families.
Somalia is currently facing multiple overlapping crises, including increased armed conflict, high inflation, land disputes and forced evictions, reduction in humanitarian aid, and the risk of drought due to the failure of two consecutive rainy seasons. These factors are major drivers of mass migration, particularly among youth who feel forced to flee in search of safety and livelihoods.