Commissioner Ursula von der Leyen highlights the EU's moral and legal responsibility to save lives at sea following a tragic collision near Chios involving a Greek coast guard vessel and a migrant boat. The incident, resulting in 15 deaths and several injuries, raises critical questions about border enforcement, search and rescue operations, and adherence to international law. This response is likely to resonate deeply with human rights advocates, border authorities, and asylum seeker communities.
The answer responds to a parliamentary question posed by MEPs from The Left, Verts/ALE, and S&D groups, including Konstantinos Arvanitis and Manon Aubry, who sought clarity on the legality of pushbacks in territorial waters, Frontex's involvement, and future Commission initiatives.
Rather than proposing new legislation or quantifiable targets, the answer reiterates existing legal frameworks, emphasizing the moral duty of Member States and the principle of non-refoulement. It clarifies that Frontex was not present during the incident and places responsibility for investigation on national authorities, specifically the Greek Central Port Authority.
Policy-wise, the Commission stresses strict compliance with international maritime and human rights law, refusing to endorse pushbacks and calling for lawful, rapid, and coordinated search and rescue. This stance prioritizes legal safeguards and humanitarian principles over expanded border enforcement powers or altered operational protocols.
Stakeholders impacted include EU Member State border guards, who must adhere to strict legal standards; migrating individuals, whose protection is reaffirmed; EU human rights organizations, bolstered by this reaffirmation; and national authorities tasked with investigation and accountability, bearing the burden of clarifying facts and possibly facing scrutiny. The response signals ongoing scrutiny but no immediate Commission-led regulatory escalation.
The Commission's follow-up involves close contact with Greek authorities and awaits outcomes of national investigations, underscoring the EU’s continued focus on monitoring and upholding maritime safety and fundamental rights while leaving investigative duties to Member States.
← Atlas › News › Home affairs & Migration