EU Agency Reports Abuse at Borders

The European Union’s Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA) has issued a report urging for increased investigations into alleged human rights abuses against migrants and refugees at EU borders, particularly in the Balkans, Mediterranean, and English Channel. The report highlights a troubling lack of investigations despite numerous credible reports of serious violations, including physical violence, neglect in rescue situations, and family separations. FRA emphasizes that victims often do not report these incidents due to their vulnerable status. In France, civil-society organizations report that only 10% of cases brought to them in Calais result in formal complaints. Many victims are hesitant to approach authorities, fearing repercussions on their asylum applications or due to a general distrust of law enforcement. Additionally, smugglers often advise against reporting incidents, further complicating the situation for those affected. The report cites a specific incident from October 2022, where French police apprehended an unaccompanied child attempting to reach the UK. After being found unconscious with a serious injury, the child was reported to authorities, but subsequent attempts to locate him failed as he had already left for the UK. This case exemplifies the challenges faced by investigators in addressing human rights abuses at the borders. FRA criticizes the low number of investigations, suggesting it reflects poorly on border management practices and fosters a sense of impunity among authorities. Ms. Rautio, a representative of FRA, has called for the implementation of effective and rights-compliant border management strategies, alongside thorough investigations into all reported abuses.