Commission support for Frontex

Question for written answer  E-000933/2021
to the Commission
Rule 138
Nadine Morano (PPE)

As tackling illegal immigration and securing our external borders continue to be major challenges for Europe, more resources have been allocated to the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) and its budget has been stepped up considerably to enable it to succeed in its work.

Much of its work, which deserves our attention and support, takes place in a complex geopolitical setting in which Turkish vessels and aircraft repeatedly violate its maritime and air space.

However, for the past few months, Frontex has been subject to accusations, based mainly on a video of unproven authenticity, in the European press about alleged pushbacks of migrants in the Aegean Sea. Although internal and external investigations have been carried out, the facts have yet to be established.

Against this backdrop and in circumstances in which an EU agency is being regularly called into question on the basis of mere allegations:

• 1.How has the Commission specifically expressed its support for Frontex, its executive team and all its staff whose reputation is being tarnished?
• 2.Can the Commission clarify what role it expects Frontex to play when it comes to tackling illegal immigration?