New Frontex Scrutiny Working Group
Quote from Tineke Strik MEP
Today, MEPs from the Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE) Committee have agreed to set up a Frontex Scrutiny Working Group, to look into allegations around the EU's border security agency's role in the illegal 'pushbacks' of refugees. The working group will carry out a fact-finding investigation, gathering all relevant information and evidence regarding alleged violations of fundamental rights in which Frontex was involved. The final report will also come up with recommendations on how to prevent fundamental rights violations in the future.
Tineke Strik MEP, Greens/EFA Coordinator in the LIBE Committee, comments:
"We are launching this investigation into Frontex as such serious allegations of human rights violations cannot go unanswered. We need to find out what exactly is going on and which structures have made this situation possible. The reaction by Frontex into worrying claims of illegal activity has been weak and disappointing. The only way to restore trust in the functioning of Frontex is through a thorough parliamentary investigation.
"If the allegations of misconduct prove to be true, then there must be consequences. We cannot allow EU agencies to act outside of the law and against European values. This inquiry is the first step towards the protection of refugees and migrants and much needed accountability for Frontex."
