Declining Trends in Illegal Border Crossings
The European Union's border agency, Frontex, has reported a noteworthy decrease in illegal border crossings at the EU's external borders during the first eight months of the year, with a decline of over one-third. Specifically, the agency recorded more than 74,000 unauthorized entries, representing a significant 35% decrease compared to the same period in the previous year. This reduction is attributed to ongoing collaboration with partner countries and proactive measures implemented in key migrant origin nations, as stated by Frontex in Warsaw.
Magnus Brunner, the EU Migration Commissioner, emphasized the positive impact of these efforts, noting, "The European migration turnaround is working—the numbers speak for themselves. Illegal border crossings have been consistently declining for the past 14 months." He urged the EU to remain committed to strengthening the external borders and solidifying these advancements.
Challenges in Monitoring Border Crossings
However, Frontex acknowledged that the reported figures do not accurately reflect the large-scale migration movement from Morocco to Spain's exclave, Ceuta, that occurred at the end of July. A definitive total number is challenging to ascertain, as many of the border crossers returned to Morocco before they could be registered. According to the Spanish government, approximately 80,000 individuals temporarily crossed into the exclave, while Morocco reported around 40,000 arrivals. Tragically, 83 individuals lost their lives in the attempt to reach Ceuta, prompting discussions about the protection of the EU's external borders and Spain's responsibilities.
Frontex officials noted that while the overall situation at the EU's external borders was calm during the summer, the events surrounding Ceuta highlighted the potential for rapid changes in border conditions within a matter of hours. They cautioned that smuggling networks would not disappear with declining numbers; rather, human traffickers would be poised to exploit the next opportunity as it arose. Frontex must be prepared for such moments.
Moreover, the agency's data indicated that the primary migration routes continue to traverse the Mediterranean, where migrants attempt to cross by boat. The routes from Turkey to Greece via the eastern Mediterranean, as well as from Libya and Tunisia to Italy and Malta through the central Mediterranean, accounted for nearly 60% of all recorded irregular entries. Although there was a marked decrease in crossings along both of these routes, a 34% increase was observed in the migration route across the western Mediterranean to Spain.
As reported by handelsblatt.com.
