The findings reported by the International Organization for Migration, IOM, were released during the Italy-Africa Conference that was held in Rome with an attendance of over two dozen African leaders and their European Union counterparts.
Leaders in attendance of the summit discussed economic ties between Africa and Italy, while unpacking ways to curb undocumented migration.
"The latest record of deaths and disappearances is a stark reminder that a comprehensive approach that includes safe and regular pathways... is the only solution that will benefit migrants and states alike," said Amy Pope, director general of the IOM.
IOM's Missing Migrants Project found that 3,041 migrants were dead or went missing in the Mediterranean last year - a significant increase from the toll reported in 2022 of 2,411.
Earlier this month, some 40 Tunisian migrants went missing after setting off in a boat toward the Italian coast.
Tunisia has replaced Libya as a main departure point for Mediterranean crossings for people fleeing poverty and conflict.
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