Thousands of African migrants arrive in the Canary Islands, 'state of emergency' declared on one island

The Canary Islands have seen a surge in migrant arrivals, with nearly 6,000 people arriving in just ten days. This increase contrasts sharply with a significant decline in arrivals earlier this year. Despite a drop in overall numbers, experts warned that this did not reflect a decrease in departures from Africa. The total number of arrivals this year has surpassed 19,000, exceeding last year's figures but remaining below the peak in 2024. Local authorities on El Hierro have declared a state of emergency due to the influx.