European countries step up fight against migrant smuggling: Belgium and partners on the front lines

European countries continue to seek solutions to combat illegal migration, and Belgium is actively involved in international efforts to eliminate migrant smuggling. At a meeting of countries in the so-called Calais Group, new strategies and measures are being discussed to curb the flow of illegal migrants and combat organised crime groups. The focus is on improving security cooperation, strengthening controls at external borders and stepping up the work of international agencies.

The problem of migrant smuggling in Europe

In 2024, the situation with migrant smuggling in Europe remains tense, despite the efforts of the international community. Flows of illegal migrants crossing borders with the help of smugglers are increasing, especially on routes from North Africa and the Middle East. Organized crime groups are using increasingly sophisticated methods to bypass controls and avoid prosecution. This problem requires a comprehensive approach and strengthened cooperation between EU countries.

The Problems of Migrant Smuggling in Europe:

• Security threats: Illegal migration creates significant challenges for law enforcement and security services. Smugglers are often linked to criminal networks involved in drug and human trafficking.
• Exploitation of migrants. People who use the services of smugglers often become victims of brutal exploitation. They are transported in inhumane conditions, subjected to violence and blackmail.
• Strain on social systems. Host countries face difficulties in providing housing, health care and integrating illegal migrants, which increases social tensions.
• Sophistication of criminal schemes. Smugglers are using new technologies and changing routes, making the work of border services more difficult. In addition, they are increasingly using low-visibility routes, including transport through international waters.

The situation is exacerbated by the lack of a coordinated migration policy in some EU countries, which creates disagreements on how to control flows. Instability in regions of origin, such as Africa and the Middle East, also plays a significant role, fueling demand for smugglers’ services. Accelerating crises related to climate change and poverty further exacerbate the problem, forcing people to seek a better life at any cost.

Key measures to combat migrant smuggling

In 2024, European countries faced increased irregular migration and the activation of criminal networks involved in migrant smuggling. Concrete steps were taken to combat this threat, including the development of joint operations, strengthening borders and active cooperation with international organizations. Particular attention was paid to the exchange of data and improved coordination between countries, which became an important element of the overall strategy.

Key measures to combat migrant smuggling:

• Strengthening border control. Additional equipment was introduced at the borders, patrols were strengthened and mobile rapid response teams were organized. This reduced the number of illegal border crossings and prevented the use of new routes.
• International cooperation. The active involvement of Frontex, Europol and other international agencies has helped identify and dismantle migrant smuggling networks. Joint operations and intelligence sharing have helped to apprehend the masterminds of the criminal schemes.
• Establishment of special task forces. Countries created operational centers to investigate migrant smuggling cases. These groups coordinated law enforcement efforts, which expedited arrests and prosecutions of criminals.
• Educating migrants about risks. In 2024, information about the risks of using smugglers’ services was intensified for potential migrants in their countries of origin. EU-funded programmes disseminated information through social media, radio and television.
• Strengthening the legal framework. New laws were introduced that toughened penalties for involvement in human smuggling. This made the organization of illegal routes less profitable and more risky for criminals.

Despite the progress made, not all aspects of the problem have been addressed. Insufficient attention has been paid to long-term solutions in migrants’ countries of origin, such as supporting economic development and addressing the causes of migration. In addition, some routes have continued to be used extensively due to weak coordination between individual countries. Achieving sustainable results will require even closer international cooperation and investment in early prevention.

Development Prospects for 2025

By 2025, European countries aim to strengthen their efforts to combat migrant smuggling, focusing on joint operations and increased international cooperation. The plan is to increase the effectiveness of work against criminal networks, improve border controls and introduce more modern monitoring technologies. These measures are aimed not only at curbing illegal migration, but also at protecting the rights of migrants from exploitation and violence.

Key measures to combat migrant smuggling in 2025:

• Strengthening international cooperation. This includes expanding partnerships between EU countries and interaction with international organisations such as Europol and Frontex. Plans include improving data sharing and coordination of operations.
• Investment in monitoring and control technologies. Installation of modern surveillance systems, drones and sensors to strengthen controls at Europe’s external borders. In 2025, the focus will be on the introduction of artificial intelligence to analyze migration flows.
• Combating criminal networks. Strengthening the prosecution of organizers of illegal migration using financial monitoring data and sanctions. Adopting new laws toughening penalties for participation in migrant smuggling.
• Social support for migrants. Creation of temporary accommodation centers, improvement of registration conditions and strengthening of legal protection of migrants to prevent their exploitation by criminal groups.
• Educational campaigns in migrants’ countries of origin. Expanding awareness programmes on the dangers of irregular migration and available legal routes to travel to reduce the flow of people at risk of being smuggled.

The plans for 2025 reflect Europe’s willingness to join forces to tackle the problem of migrant smuggling in a comprehensive manner. Strengthening borders and combating crime will go hand in hand with improving conditions for migrants, creating a safer environment. It is important that each participating country acts within the framework of a common plan, strengthening trust and the effectiveness of collective measures. This approach will not only reduce the risks of illegal migration, but also strengthen stability in the region.