The irregular crossing of EU borders has decreased by over a third in 2024 so far. Hans Leijtens, the director of the European border guard agency Frontex, stated that NGO ships rescuing migrants in the Mediterranean Sea do not encourage departures. He emphasized that the main focus of Frontex officers is to save lives on land and at sea, and they promise to do so with the resources available. Leijtens reiterated that all Frontex agents have taken an oath to serve and protect, making this their top priority.
Leijtens’ position contrasts with a confidential agency document on migration routes from Libya to Europe, which has not been made public but has been reported in the press. The document has been cited by the Italian government to criticize the activities of NGOs. The director’s emphasis on respecting the fundamental rights of migrants has been noted by several Members of the European Parliament. This focus on fundamental rights is seen as a departure from the approach of his predecessor, Fabrice Leggeri, who is now a member of the European Parliament for the far-right Patriots for Europe group.
In the first seven months of 2024, irregular crossings of European borders have decreased by 36%, primarily due to a decline in traffic on the Balkan and Central Mediterranean routes. However, landings on the Canary Islands have more than doubled, and entries from Belarus to the Baltic countries have almost tripled. Data from the UN refugee agency for 2023 shows that refugees and asylum seekers arrived in Europe in record numbers last year. This highlights the ongoing challenges faced by European countries in managing migration flows and ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals seeking refuge.
Frontex director Hans Leijtens reiterated his commitment to saving lives and protecting individuals, emphasizing that this is the primary focus of all Frontex agents. Despite the decrease in irregular crossings in 2024, the increase in arrivals in certain regions such as the Canary Islands and the Baltic countries underscores the need for continued vigilance and effective border management strategies. The agency’s efforts to respect the fundamental rights of migrants and refugees are seen as a step in the right direction, as Europe grapples with the complex challenges posed by migration.
The discussion surrounding the role of NGO ships in the Mediterranean and the effectiveness of border management strategies will continue to be a topic of debate within the European Parliament and among member states. The importance of collaboration and coordination among EU countries, Frontex, and NGOs in addressing the root causes of migration and ensuring the safety and well-being of migrants and refugees remains paramount. As European countries navigate the evolving migration landscape, the need for a comprehensive and human rights-centered approach to migration policy becomes increasingly clear. Leijtens’ dedication to upholding the values of service and protection reflects a commitment to ensuring that all individuals seeking refuge in Europe are treated with dignity and respect.
