European Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner has presented a plan to strengthen controls at the European Union’s external borders following a large-scale crossing into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. The measures would require approval from EU member states before taking effect.
The proposal would expand the role of Frontex, the EU border agency, and create a standing force ready for rapid deployment. Brunner said Frontex would work more closely with national authorities, strengthen monitoring of external borders and nearby areas, and take a larger role in returns.
The package also calls for earlier warnings of border breaches, stronger action against people-smuggling networks and additional support for migrants’ countries of origin. Brunner did not provide a cost estimate or specify the resources needed to carry out the plan.
The announcement follows a July crossing in which more than 72,000 people entered Ceuta from Morocco, according to Reuters. Scores of people died in the incident, and around 10,000 irregular migrants remained in the enclave as of Tuesday. Ceuta is Spanish territory but is outside the Schengen area, where people who enter legally can generally travel between member countries without routine internal border checks.
Brunner said irregular border crossings across the EU were at their lowest level since 2021, while acknowledging that the events in Ceuta had intensified calls for stronger preparedness. The Commission’s plan now faces discussion by member states, which will determine whether and how the proposed changes move forward.
