EU Migration Commissioner Outlines New Border Control Strategy
European Union Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner has declared that the bloc now maintains full control over who enters European territory, marking a significant shift from the 2015 refugee crisis that saw over 1.3 million asylum seekers arrive.
Ten Years After the Migration Wave
A decade after Angela Merkel's famous "Wir schaffen das" ("We can do this") statement during the 2015 crisis, the EU has implemented comprehensive reforms through the Pact on Migration and Asylum, set to fully take effect in June 2026. Commissioner Brunner emphasized that Europe has learned crucial lessons about managing migration collectively across 27 member states.
New Border Management Framework
The Commissioner highlighted dramatic reductions in irregular arrivals, with a 95% decrease in the Western Balkans route and 60% reduction in Central Mediterranean crossings since 2022. "We are putting in place a modern migration system that restores control over who can come to Europe – and who cannot," Brunner stated in written responses to the European Newsroom.
Fundamental Rights Protection
Addressing past accusations of violent pushbacks at borders, Brunner affirmed that "human and fundamental rights must be respected. This is what makes us European." Frontex, the EU border agency, has been equipped with enhanced fundamental rights protections since its 2019 mandate update, including a dedicated Fundamental Rights Officer.
Comprehensive Partnership Approach
The EU is pursuing a "whole-of-route approach" that engages third countries through visa policy, trade agreements, and development aid. This strategy aims to address migration challenges at their source while establishing "comprehensive partnerships based on mutual interests."
Rebuilding Public Trust
Commissioner Brunner acknowledged the loss of public trust and increased political polarization following the 2015 crisis. "The priority should be to instill confidence among people that we have control over what happens in Europe," he stated, emphasizing the need for evidence-based policies and coordinated European action.