Mauritania

Refugees attempting to take the Atlantic migration route — one of the deadliest in the world — frequently disembark along the Mauritanian coast. According to the Spanish NGO Caminando Fronteras, almost 10,000 people were reported dead or missing while attempting the Atlantic crossing in 2024, and almost 2,000 in 2025. It is very likely that the actual number of deaths is higher than these reported figures, as not all sea crossings are reported or lead to rescues.

MSF launched its Atlantic migration project in Mauritania in response to increasing tragedies at sea. In Nouadhibou, we offer medical and psychological assistance to migrants on intercepted boats heading toward the Canary Islands, strengthening our response with the opening of the Center for Reception, Care, and Assistance (CASA) in April 2025.

While Spanish authorities reported a drop in the number of arrivals from Mauritania in 2025, in part due to increased maritime surveillance and stricter enforcement by Mauritanian authorities, many people continue to attempt the sea route, leaving from other West African countries to reduce the risk of interception. Some of our patients have reported being on board for up to 15 days with no water, fearful of drowning because they do not know how to swim. Others have witnessed people dying during their journeys and bodies being thrown into the sea.