KAPITAN ANDREEVO, Bulgaria (Reuters) – The number of officers from the European Union’s border agency Frontex in Bulgaria will be tripled starting next month to reduce the flow of people crossing into the bloc from Turkey. This increase in staffing coincides with Bulgaria’s upcoming partial entry into Europe’s Schengen Zone, which will eliminate passport checks for travelers between the country and that area by air and sea from March 31. Land travel will still require border checks.
Frontex chief Hans Leijtens stated that the additional officers would bring the total number working in Bulgaria to between 500-600. He emphasized the importance of Bulgaria as a crucial partner in safeguarding the EU’s external borders.
380,000 irregular crossings were recorded by Frontex across all EU borders last year, marking the highest number since 2016. While the figures are lower compared to the peak in 2015 and 2016, which was driven by a surge in migrants escaping conflict and poverty in the Middle East and Africa.
Frontex is increasing its presence in Bulgaria to address the ongoing challenges of irregular migration and enhance border security. The agency’s efforts aim to prevent unauthorized crossings and protect the EU’s external boundaries, particularly in light of the rise in crossings from Turkey.
The Schengen Zone expansion for Bulgaria will facilitate smoother travel for individuals moving between the country and other Schengen countries by air and sea. However, the maintenance of border checks for land travel underscores the importance of ensuring border security and preventing illegal entry.
Frontex’s decision to bolster its personnel in Bulgaria signifies a commitment to fortifying the borders and enhancing cooperation with key partners in the region. The agency’s presence is integral to maintaining security and order along the EU’s external boundaries, particularly in regions facing heightened migratory pressures.
With the implementation of stricter border controls and increased Frontex presence, Bulgaria is poised to strengthen its border security measures and contribute to the overall security of the European Union. The collaborative efforts between Frontex and Bulgarian authorities are crucial in addressing the challenges posed by irregular migration and ensuring the integrity of the EU’s external borders.
The reinforcement of Frontex officers in Bulgaria reflects the EU’s commitment to enhancing border security and addressing the evolving threats posed by irregular migration. By tripling the number of officers in the country, Frontex aims to improve border management and prevent unauthorized crossings, ultimately safeguarding the EU’s external borders.
As Frontex intensifies its operations in Bulgaria, the agency seeks to bolster its capabilities and strengthen its partnership with Bulgarian authorities in addressing migration challenges. The increased presence of Frontex officers underscores the EU’s dedication to upholding border security and safeguarding the Schengen Zone’s integrity in the face of rising migration pressures.
In conclusion, the expansion of Frontex’s personnel in Bulgaria underscores the agency’s commitment to enhancing border security and cooperation with partner countries. By tripling the number of officers in the region, Frontex aims to reinforce its presence and combat irregular migration, ultimately contributing to a more secure and orderly management of the EU’s external borders.
