Addressing Irregular Migration in the Mediterranean

Irregular immigration in southern Europe poses a challenge, and the EU needs a much more effective maritime border control policy.

The paper argues that Frontex, the EU agency for external border security, has enjoyed some successes. However, Frontex remains vulnerable because it depends on Member States’ solidarity and has an emergency-driven mandate. Frontex’s competences should therefore be strengthened. Frontex must pay more attention to respecting migrants' human rights. Also, Frontex should conclude working arrangements with neighbouring Mediterranean third countries and countries of origin, and it should encourage the creation of national coordination centres in all Member States located on EU borders.

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