Migration Route through Bosnia and Herzegovina: European Commissioner on Border Security

Strategic Insights -

European Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner, has stated that the migration route through Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) has become the most attractive for those attempting to enter the European Union illegally, making border security a top priority. Brunner's visit to BiH last week for the inauguration of a new Frontex mission highlighted the need for tighter border controls, as smugglers shifted routes to avoid increased police operations in Serbia. The deployment of Frontex officers to five countries in the region, including Moldova, has already led to the dismantling of numerous smuggling networks and improved border safety.

Key Takeaways:

  • The migration route through Bosnia and Herzegovina has become the most attractive for migrants attempting to enter the European Union illegally, according to European Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner.
  • Tighter border controls in BiH became crucial after smugglers shifted routes to avoid increased police operations in Serbia.
  • Frontex has deployed officers to five countries in the region, including Moldova, to combat smuggling and improve border safety.
  • More than 100 Frontex personnel will monitor seven border crossings in BiH alongside the country's border police.
  • The EU and Western Balkans are strengthening joint efforts to protect citizens and support the region's path to EU membership.
  • The new EU Entry/Exit System is operating effectively and will enhance Schengen security.
  • Measures are in place to address occasional delays in the entry/exit system.
  • Flexibilities have been introduced to allow member states to respond adequately to any difficulties.

Statistics:

  • More than 100 Frontex personnel will be deployed to monitor seven border crossings in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
  • Frontex has deployed officers to five countries in the region, including Moldova.
  • The new EU Entry/Exit System has been operating effectively since its introduction.
  • The system aims to enhance Schengen security through improved border control mechanisms.
  • Occasional delays in the entry/exit system are addressed through measures in place.
  • Flexibilities have been introduced to allow member states to respond to any difficulties in the entry/exit system.

Sources:

  • Hina, Nov 3, 2022, European Commissioner: Bosnia Migration Route Most Attractive for Those Trying to Enter EU Illegally
  • Nezavisne Novine, European Commissioner for Home Affairs Visited BiH, Inaugurating the New Frontex Mission