Record number of illegal migrants crossing the English Channel attributed to calm weather days, criminal people smuggling gangs, pull factors like free accommodation and lack of cooperation by French authorities.
Key Points
Record number of over 10,000 illegal migrants crossing the English Channel in small boats in 2025
40% increase compared to the same period last year
Criminal gangs taking advantage of calm weather days
Pull factors like free accommodation and lack of cooperation by French authorities contributing to the issue
Pros
Increased awareness of the challenges in border security
Potential for increased resources and measures to address the issue
Cons
Risk to lives of migrants crossing in small boats
Criminal people smuggling gangs profiting from illicit trade