Migrants Attempt Channel Crossing In Small Boats

LEFFRINCKOUCKE, FRANCE - MARCH 2: World War 2 fortifications overlook the beach in an area known for migrant dinghy launches into the English Channel, on March 2, 2026 in Leffrinckoucke, France. Last year the number of people arriving by small boat totalled 41,472 - an increase of 13% on the previous year, but lower than the highest number of 45,774 recorded in 2022. Despite the increased number of small boat arrivals last year, the figure for people claiming asylum in the UK fell by 4% in 2025, reflecting a decrease in claims made by those applying in the UK under other circumstances. (Photo by Carl Court/Getty Images)