Key facts
- European Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner proposed a plan to strengthen EU external border controls.
- The plan includes bolstering Frontex's mandate and its standing corps.
- It also aims to improve collaboration with member states on returning irregular migrants.
- The EU is considering early warning systems for border breaches and cracking down on people smugglers.
- Ursula von der Leyen called for stronger borders, including the use of physical barriers where needed.
- Spain estimates approximately 69,500 migrants returned to Morocco after arriving in Ceuta.
European Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner has proposed a comprehensive plan to bolster the European Union's external border controls in response to a significant surge of migrants into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. The initiative, which requires approval from member states, aims to enhance the mandate and operational capacity of Frontex, the EU's border protection agency, including the establishment of a standing corps for immediate deployment.
Brunner's proposal also emphasizes closer collaboration between Frontex and member states, particularly in the return of irregular migrants. Additionally, the plan includes provisions for early warning systems to detect border breaches, measures to combat people smuggling networks, and increased aid for countries of origin for migrants. Specifics on the financial resources and costs required for these measures were not provided.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed the call for stronger borders, writing to Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to emphasize the need for enhanced monitoring and the potential use of physical barriers at critical points. She praised Spain's handling of the crisis, noting that order had been restored and the returns system had functioned effectively.
The influx into Ceuta saw tens of thousands of people arrive from Morocco, with Spain estimating that approximately 69,500 migrants have returned over a four-day period. The incident has led to diplomatic friction, with some EU member states, including Italy and Denmark, reportedly criticizing Spain's policies and advocating for stricter deterrents. EU interior ministers convened for emergency talks to discuss lessons learned from the crisis and potential responses, including strengthening cooperation with non-EU countries, enhancing external borders, implementing early warning systems, dismantling smuggling networks, and boosting returns.