EU plans major expansion of Frontex powers
The European Commission is preparing a major overhaul of the rules governing Frontex, potentially expanding the EU border agency’s powers as the bloc moves toward a tougher migration policy, Euractiv reported Wednesday.
The Commission is expected to present its proposal in October, with EU officials saying the changes could give Frontex a broader mandate to cooperate with non-EU countries and a greater role in deportation and return operations.
The agency could also receive expanded responsibilities in tackling cross-border crime and so-called hybrid threats.
Standing corps could reach 30,000
One of the most significant proposals would triple Frontex’s standing corps to 30,000 officers, substantially increasing its operational capacity at the EU’s external borders.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is expected to outline elements of the planned overhaul during her State of the European Union address next Wednesday, according to EU officials cited by Euractiv.
Wider role beyond EU borders
The proposed changes could give Frontex powers to carry out returns from one non-European territory to another country outside the EU, a function not covered by its current legal framework.
Such operations would require a new legal basis.
The Commission is also considering giving Frontex greater flexibility to deploy personnel in non-EU countries without requiring a full formal status agreement, potentially allowing the agency to respond more quickly to migration and security developments abroad.
Migration pressure drives review
The planned overhaul follows renewed pressure on the EU’s external borders, including a major migration surge in Ceuta, Spain’s enclave on Morocco’s northern coast.
Tens of thousands of migrants crossed into the territory in July, reigniting debate over border management and the EU’s ability to respond to sudden migration movements.
The proposed Frontex reforms are expected to form part of a broader effort by Brussels to strengthen border controls, increase cooperation with countries outside the EU and accelerate the return of migrants who do not have the right to remain in the bloc.
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