Germany proposes a rapid Frontex force capable of intervening within 24 hours in the event of sudden migratory pressures at the EU’s borders

Germany is proposing the establishment of a rapid intervention force within the European border agency Frontex to support member states in the event of sudden migratory pressures at the European Union’s external borders. German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt presented the initiative on Saturday in Munich, ahead of a meeting with 16 European counterparts and the European Commissioner for Migration, Magnus Brenner.

According to the minister, the new structure should be capable of reaching affected countries within no more than 24 hours. The proposal comes against the backdrop of the situation in Ceuta this summer and concerns about responding rapidly to an escalation in migratory flows.

The European Commission is expected to present a strengthened mandate for Frontex in the coming period, enabling the agency to act more quickly and flexibly before situations turn into crises.

The German government, led by Friedrich Merz, also wants to expand Frontex’s role in return procedures, including cooperation with third countries and the implementation of Dublin procedures. Germany, Denmark, the Netherlands, Austria and Greece are preparing return centers outside the EU and want to present the first agreements by the end of the year. The IRC organization criticizes the initiative, considering it costly and contrary to fundamental rights.