Spain seeks Frontex assistance to monitor African waters amid rising migration

Spain has formally requested the European Union border agency, Frontex, to collaborate with West African nations in bolstering patrols in African waters.

This initiative is part of Spain’s broader effort to curb irregular migration across the Atlantic Ocean, particularly from Senegal, Mauritania, and Gambia to the Canary Islands.

Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska made the announcement, highlighting the importance of renewing cooperation with African countries.

He pointed to Frontex’s significant role during the migration crisis in 2006, when the agency worked closely with Spanish authorities to gather intelligence and manage migration flows.

Grande-Marlaska stressed that the successful implementation of this plan would require approval from the affected countries.

“It is crucial to obtain the necessary agreements from these nations to reactivate this cooperation. The goal is to combat human trafficking networks and reduce the number of departures from their shores,” he stated.

The proposed measures would involve not only enhanced patrolling but also strengthening border management and improving the process for returning migrants.

Frontex’s potential involvement could prove pivotal in addressing the growing influx of migrants arriving in the Canary Islands.

The number of migrants reaching the Canary Islands has surged, with 26,758 arrivals recorded by July 2024, compared to 39,910 for the entire year of 2023.

This increase has prompted the Spanish government to intensify efforts to manage migration routes across the Atlantic.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez also weighed in on the issue, emphasizing the positive role that legal migration plays in supporting Spain’s economy, particularly in light of demographic challenges such as an aging population.

“Irregular migration represents only a small portion of overall migration,” Sánchez remarked, reaffirming Spain’s commitment to striking a balance between protecting its borders and harnessing the benefits of legal migration.

Founded in 2004 and based in Warsaw, Poland, Frontex plays a critical role in coordinating border surveillance activities across the European Union and Schengen-associated countries.

The agency facilitates cooperation between national border authorities, provides technical expertise, and supports joint operations, including rapid interventions when needed.

Frontex is also responsible for aiding the return of individuals ineligible to remain within the EU and plays a key role in combating cross-border crime.

By deploying personnel and resources at sea, land, and air borders, the agency helps manage migration flows and detect illegal activities on the EU’s borders.