EU presents plan to curb Channel crossings and backs return hubs outside its borders
The European Commission outlined a plan on Tuesday to fight illegal Channel crossings, alongside a ministerial agreement that could see EU funds finance migrant return hubs beyond its territory.
Channel crossing plan
The European Commission unveiled a plan to reinforce the fight against illegal migration across the Channel. Measures include better identification of smuggler networks, deployment of Frontex agents and equipment, and support for Europol’s anti-trafficking centre.
The executive intends to pursue ‘migration diplomacy’ with countries of origin and transit.
The plan will also back awareness campaigns targeting migrants, developed by EU countries and the United Kingdom.
Return hubs agreement
Separately, EU interior ministers approved a text that would allow Union funds to be used for migrant return hubs outside its borders. The move marks a further tightening of the bloc’s migration policy, though details of the hubs’ location and operation remain undefined.
Migration pressure
Authorities recorded nearly 64,000 attempted Channel crossings last year, a slight decrease from 2024 figures. Small-boat crossings remain a sensitive bilateral issue between France and the UK, and the new EU measures aim to add an extra layer of control.
