Force for the Mediterranean: State of play

In the aftermath of the Lampedusa tragedy, all member states agreed on the need to show solidarity with the Mediterranean countries. Now it is time for them to put their words into action and concretely follow up on this commitment, says the European Commission.

A number of measures have been identified in the framework of the Task Force. These include short term concrete measures such as increasing Frontex presence in the Mediterranean and implementing the EUROSUR system to better identify and assist boats. In the medium and long term the EU needs to cooperate better with third countries, to open more channels for regular migration and to effectively fight the criminal networks smuggling migrants.

Background

Increasing the presence of Frontex in the Mediterranean, with more boats, planes and helicopters would help improve the surveillance of the EU borders and also identify migrants' boats before they run into trouble. The EUROSUR system will help ensure smooth operations at technical level, allowing a real time exchange of information within national authorities involved in maritime surveillance and between the EU countries' authorities. Agreements with the countries of transit and origin of migrants and asylum seekers will also allow the EU to better manage migratory flows and to fight more effectively the criminal networks of smugglers and traffickers that are behind these tragedies.

Information on DG Home Affairs

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