MEPs fear fundamental rights will take a hit under plans to expand EU border agency
New mandate would permit Frontex to support deportations to and from return hubs, commissioner says.
Members of the European Parliament express concern that fundamental rights may be compromised under proposals to enlarge the role of EU border agency Frontex. Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner introduced plans for a comprehensive overhaul of Frontex during a recent session with MEPs on the Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs Committee.
This proposed expansion would grant Frontex responsibility for every aspect of returns, from initial planning to reintegration support. Furthermore, the EU agency would also be allowed to assist non-EU countries in deporting individuals from their territory, as well as facilitating transfers from EU countries to external hubs before deportation to third nations.
While national authorities would continue to make decisions regarding returns, Frontex would oversee "return-related support from the beginning to the end, from A to Z," Brunner explained. Centrist and left-leaning lawmakers raised concerns that the expanded mandate and reach of Frontex could result in greater risks to fundamental rights.
Tineke Strik, a Dutch member of the Greens, questioned how the agency would ensure compliance with EU law while operating under the legal frameworks of third countries. Murielle Laurent, a French member of Socialists and Democrats, asked whether Europe could externalize migration policy while simultaneously neglecting its commitment to uphold human rights.
Brunner defended that Frontex must still adhere to stringent fundamental rights obligations under the proposed plans, and that any international agreements allowing Frontex to assist non-EU countries in returns would require Parliament approval.
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