Europe’s border agency Frontex has released its yearly risk report, warning that the EU faces tougher border problems than before. The agency says some countries are using migration to pressure the EU’s eastern borders, while violence and troubles in Africa are creating new smuggling routes.
Frontex points to several growing issues. People are using fake documents and smaller airports to slip past air border controls, and criminal groups are getting smarter with drones and digital tricks to beat security checks. The agency also warns about “hybrid threats” like disinformation campaigns and sabotage attempts aimed at weakening EU unity.
Violence in Africa’s Sahel region is pushing more people to leave and try to reach Europe. Criminal groups are finding new ways to move people and goods across borders.
Frontex says it has moved beyond just helping with border operations. The agency now focuses on sharing intelligence, helping EU countries prepare for problems before they hit, and making sure human rights are respected.
The annual report helps national governments understand what threats they’re facing and plan their border security, all while trying to uphold the values that define the European Union.
