Spanish Channel 5: Significant Rise in Irregular Migration to the Balearic Islands via the “Hidden Route” from Algeria

ALDAR / Meryem Hafiani

Spanish Channel 5 reported that the Balearic Islands are witnessing a notable increase in the number of irregular migrants arriving through what is known as the “bread route,” a hidden pathway that starts from Algeria’s northern coasts in North Africa and leads to the Spanish archipelago. This route is referred to as the “bread route” in Spanish media coverage because, for migrants, it represents a way to seek a chance at life and earn a livelihood, despite the risks of irregular migration.

The channel explained that this path differs from traditional migration routes such as the Atlantic Ocean and the Canary Islands, as it receives less media attention. This reduces the presence of maritime rescue teams and increases the danger of the journey.

In 2025, a total of 253 boats carrying 4,748 migrants arrived in the Balearic Islands — a 77% increase compared to the previous year — making it the fastest-growing migration route in Europe, according to Channel 5.

The report also highlighted that migration pressures are beginning to affect the archipelago, where the local community and security authorities face a dual challenge: ensuring the safety and protection of newcomers while simultaneously cracking down on smuggling networks exploiting this semi-hidden route.