EU proposes wider Frontex powers for returns outside the bloc

The European Commission proposed expanding the EU border agency Frontex’s powers in Brussels on 27 October 2026, including a role in returns between countries outside the bloc, according to Reuters. The plan would give the agency more ways to act beyond EU territory as governments press for tougher migration controls; it has not been adopted.

Under the proposal, Frontex could help organise and carry out returns from one non-EU country to another, subject to agreements with the countries involved and international legal standards, Reuters reported. Deutsche Welle separately reported that the plan would let the agency support non-EU countries in returning migrants to their countries of origin.

How Frontex’s return role would expand

A new European border and return reserve would have 17,000 officers available to member states for deployment when needed. Reuters reported that the Commission envisages gradually increasing Frontex’s standing corps to 30,000 officers by 2041. Brunner said a quick reaction force could deploy within 24 hours. The plan would also create an online centre to monitor border-related developments on social media and support action against content linked to border security risks.

The Commission proposed €11.8 billion for Frontex in the EU’s 2028–2034 budget cycle, compared with almost €6 billion earmarked under the 2021–2027 framework, Reuters reported. The proposed funding would accompany the broader mandate and larger force.

Why the oversight change is contested

The proposal follows a humanitarian crisis in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta during the summer, Deutsche Welle reported. Reuters said the arrival of more than 72,000 people from Morocco in late July, most of whom later left, renewed debate over EU migration rules. Member states have also argued that too many people ordered to leave the bloc remain there.

Alongside the new powers, the plan would narrow Frontex’s internal rights watchdog’s role and refer complaints to national authorities, Reuters reported. Dutch Green MEP Tineke Strik argued that work with non-EU countries without proper oversight threatened fundamental rights and respect for international law. Her objection puts accountability at the centre of the debate over the agency’s proposed reach beyond EU territory.