By working alongside national authorities at Europe’s land, air, and sea borders, tackling
cross-border crime, conducting detailed risk analyses, managing return operations, and providing specialised training, we help create a Europe that is safer, stronger, and more
secure for everyone.
In 2024, the EU adopted a new Pact on Migration and Asylum, which introduces a comprehensive approach to migration management, focusing on secure borders, faster asylum procedures, and greater solidarity among Member States. Frontex plays a key role in the Pact’s implementation, assisting with border screening, managing return operations, and ensuring Member States have the support needed during migration surges or crises.
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Frontex provided significant operational support during the Olympic and Paralympic Games in France and EURO 2024 in Germany. Hundreds of officers were deployed to assist with border checks, manage increased passenger flows, and enhance security. This reinforces Frontex’s role in supporting Member States during key events, adapting to their specific needs and challenges.
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Frontex released its Annual Risk Analysis for 2024/2025, highlighting immediate challenges at EU borders, including migration flows and cross-border crime. For the third time since 2020, the Agency also published a Strategic Risk Analysis, offering a decade-long perspective on evolving threats and opportunities in border management.
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In 2024, Frontex introduced a new operational command structure, shifting decision-making closer to the field. This change enhances responsiveness and strengthens cooperation with Member States. Two new contingents were launched this year: one covering Italy and Malta, and another overseeing Greece and Cyprus, each with teams operating across land, sea, and air domains.
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In 2024, the number of irregular border crossings at the European Union’s external borders reached a total of just over 239 000. This number marks a 38% decrease compared to the figures in 2023 and the lowest level since 2021.
Effective return operations are key to managing migration. In 2024, Frontex assisted Member States in returning 56 262 individuals, marking a 43% increase from the previous year. Voluntary returns continued to rise, making up 64% of returns in 2024, compared to 54% in 2023.
Toolboxes for vulnerable groups
Frontex is dedicated to supporting vulnerable individuals throughout the return process. In 2024, the Agency launched the “Toolbox for Children in Return” offering resources such as age-appropriate guides, activity books, and manuals for children and migration officers. These tools aim to ensure a smooth and respectful return experience for families. In the coming years, additional toolboxes will be developed to address the specific needs of other vulnerable groups, ensuring that all individuals receive the necessary care and support during their return.
More about vulnerable groups
Frontex collaborates with international partners to strengthen border security, manage migration, and combat cross-border crime. In 2024, the Agency enhanced these partnerships to address emerging challenges at the EU’s external borders.
Frontex expanded cooperation with the United Kingdom, focusing on improving situational awareness, risk analysis, and capacity building for more effective border management. The Agency also deepened its partnership with EUAM Ukraine, reinforcing integrated border management and security at the EU-Ukraine border amidst the ongoing conflict.
Additionally, Frontex strengthened its collaboration with FRA and UNHCR to ensure border management respects fundamental rights and humanitarian protection standards, with a focus on training and information sharing. Cooperation with Europol also grew, particularly in tackling cross-border crime, with Frontex contributing intelligence from its border surveillance to enhance law enforcement responses.
Fundamental rights are at the core of effective migration management. Together with the independent Fundamental Rights Office, Frontex is committed to safeguarding the rights of people at the borders in every mission we undertake.
In 2024, 46 Frontex’s independent fundamental rights monitors were fully engaged in monitoring almost 30 countries, with a particular focus on Greece, Spain, Italy, Romania, and Bulgaria. Their presence in the field exceeded 2 000 days, marking a substantial increase of 400 days compared to 2023. On top of that, they monitored 50 return operations.
The Fundamental Rights Office also provided a total of 500 days of training to enhance European border management capacity. In addition, almost 90 complaints and 60 serious incident reports were processed throughout the year.
We’re building a stronger future for border management. We are investing in better training, smarter planning and new technologies. Our focus is on intelligence-led operations to provide even more effective support to Member States. We ensure everybody is treated with respect and that fundamental rights are upheld in all we do.
Hans Leijtens, Frontex Executive Director