Manfred Weber, leader of the EPP, urged that Frontex be given stronger enforcement and command powers after a sudden influx of migrants into Ceuta. Tens of thousands reportedly entered the Spanish exclave from North Africa, in some cases by swimming or climbing. EU interior ministers will meet Tuesday to discuss the incident, amid criticism of Spain's handling of the situation and debate over Frontex's role.
EU Conservative Leader Urges Granting Frontex Command Powers After Ceuta Influx
Spanish police officers respond as migrants cross the maritime border from Morocco into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. (is associated with: «Leading EU conservative wants more power for Frontex border agency») Jesús Torres/EUROPA PRESS/dpa
Manfred Weber, leader of the European People's Party (EPP), has called for the EU border agency Frontex to be granted stronger enforcement and command powers in response to a sudden migration surge into the Spanish exclave of Ceuta.
"I want us to give Frontex, our European external border agency, meaning our border protection in Europe, real enforcement powers," Weber told RTL on Saturday. "If a left-wing government in Spain is not willing to secure the external border, then Frontex must also be given command authority. Then Europe must also go to this border and restore order."
FILE PHOTO: President of the European People's Party (EPP) Manfred Weber delivers a statement at the EPP meeting ahead of the EU summit, the meeting of the heads of state and government of the European Union. (is associated with: «Leading EU conservative wants more power for Frontex border agency») Michael Kappeler/dpa
Images showing tens of thousands of people entering Ceuta from neighboring Morocco — in some cases by swimming or climbing into the enclave — have alarmed officials across the European Union. Multiple explanations are circulating about the origins of the mass influx, and several commentators and politicians in Europe have criticised Spain's Socialist government for its handling of the situation.
EU interior ministers are scheduled to meet on Tuesday to discuss the incident and its implications for border management and migration policy. The meeting will likely examine whether national authorities need support from Frontex and how the agency's mandate could be adjusted to respond to similar crises in the future.
Weber warned that Europe must avoid an "uncontrolled situation" like the one seen in Ceuta and stressed that borders need to be secured while also ensuring respect for human rights and legal procedures for migrants and asylum-seekers.
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