Irregular entries into the European Union decreased 22% in the first nine months of 2025, reaching 133 400 according to preliminary data from Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency.*  Across Europe, more than 3 600 Frontex officers continue to assist national authorities in safeguarding the EU’s external borders.    Key highlights:  Strong declines on the Western African (-58%), Western Balkan (-47%), and Eastern Land Border (-36%) routes.  The Central Mediterranean is the busiest