European Union countries are considering plans to expand the Frontex powers, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency. These measures aim to enhance the Union’s resilience against new hybrid threats, including airspace violations and attacks on critical infrastructure to improve EU security.
This information comes from Euractiv, which cites a confidential EU Council document circulated by Denmark, the current holder of the EU presidency.
New Tasks Within the EU
Denmark’s initiative is a direct response to a series of recent drone incursions into European airspace, including over military installations.
Key proposals for revising Frontex’s mandate include:
☛ Airspace Surveillance: Frontex could be granted powers to assist in airspace surveillance.
☛ Infrastructure Protection: The agency could take on additional responsibilities for protecting critical strategic infrastructure, such as airports and military bases.
☛ Political Sensitivity: Commissioner for Migration Magnus Brunner previously hinted that the mandate might extend to drone protection and airport security, a politically sensitive issue amid reports of Russia-linked disruptions and surveillance.
☛ Right to Intervene: A separate provision could be established, allowing Frontex to intervene at the request of a member state in situations involving hybrid threats and the instrumentalisation of migration.
The mandate revision is scheduled for 2026 and reflects the growing desire among EU capitals to align Frontex’s mission with the evolving security landscape, especially after the agency adopted a NATO-like command structure.
Expanding Operations Beyond the EU
EU authorities are also looking to grant Frontex more Frontex powers to collaborate with third countries. The agency is expected to expand beyond its existing agreements with six Western Balkan states, potentially deploying its teams to major international airports and key border crossings outside the EU.
Frontex could also assume a more active role in conducting pre-departure checks for travelers heading to the Schengen Area.
EU capitals are once again calling for Frontex to be allowed to coordinate the return of refugees from one third country to another, as well as to support “return centers” established through bilateral agreements, effectively extending the agency’s scope of activity beyond EU borders.
It is worth noting that the European Commission has proposed tripling Frontex’s standing corps to 30,000 personnel by 2027. However, EU member states are urging a clear definition of the agency’s future Frontex powers and tasks before such a large-scale expansion is implemented to ensure effective EU security.
