Hans Leijtens, the new head of the EU’s border protection agency Frontex, has called for a shift in focus towards blocking illegal crossings while simultaneously facilitating a more accessible process for asylum seekers and economic migrants. Leijtens emphasized the need for “more humanity” and less “xenophobia and prejudice” in the EU’s migration approach, challenging the notion that physical barriers alone can stop people from crossing borders.
Leijtens, a former lieutenant-general in the Dutch police, assumed the role of director-general of Frontex in December 2022. He criticized what he described as the EU’s migration policy being characterized by “wishful thinking and an often exaggerated choice of words.” Frontex, the fastest-growing EU agency, has experienced a substantial increase in budget and staff, with plans to establish a “standing corps” as the EU’s first uniformed and armed police force by 2027.
In contrast to rigid border enforcement, Leijtens proposed a four-step plan for “good border management.” The first step involves cracking down on people-smuggling and illegal crossings while simultaneously opening up legal avenues for immigration. Step two emphasizes ending “alarmism” and addressing migration as a reality rather than a superficial concern. The third step focuses on ensuring the EU has accurate information about incoming individuals, and the fourth step involves the proper processing of asylum applicants and the deportation of those whose claims are deemed groundless.
Leijtens stressed the importance of balancing effective border management with respect for fundamental rights, rejecting the narrative of continuously “closing borders” and “stopping people.” He expressed a willingness to negotiate deals with countries like Tunisia, Morocco, and Egypt, emphasizing that the EU should provide incentives such as visa facilitation, more legal routes into the EU, and economic support in return for cooperation in combating irregular migration. However, he ruled out negotiations with Libyan militias, characterizing them as human rights violators and potential war criminals.
Leijtens’ approach reflects a nuanced perspective that aims to address migration challenges by combining border control measures with humanitarian considerations and diplomatic negotiations with key countries in the region. The emphasis on a balanced approach aligns with evolving discussions within the EU on how to navigate complex migration issues while upholding fundamental rights and international obligations.
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