Migrants and refugees in France

Solidarités International highlighted the extreme difficulties faced by migrant women in northern France. Many lack safe water, toilets, showers, and menstrual hygiene products, while repeated camp evictions leave them exposed to violence and dependency. Aid organizations provide some support, but gaps remain severe.
French authorities have reported the first migrant deaths linked to Channel crossing attempts in 2026 near Gravelines, while France and the UK have agreed to extend their migration cooperation deal by two months. The incident involved the deaths of two people while trying to cross the English Channel from northern France to the UK.
At least 4 migrants died off Équihen, northern France, during a failed attempt to board a smuggler’s “taxi boat” bound for the UK, with French authorities saying strong currents pulled them into the water. Around 37 others were rescued.

France