Frontex is allowed to operate actively on Belgian territory
The European border agency Frontex will now be able to operate actively on Belgian soil. On Friday, Belgium’s Council of Ministers approved a Royal Decree submitted by interior minister Bernard Quintin (MR), clearing the way for the agency to support national authorities.
Under the new decree, Frontex can assist Belgium in controlling external borders, such as at Brussels Airport in Zaventem and in managing the deportation of individuals residing illegally, including those convicted of crimes.
“This decision is fully in line with the coalition agreement, which focuses on more internal security and a stricter policy on illegal migration, whereby people with an order to leave the territory are effectively sent back,” Quintin said. He noted that all Frontex operations in Belgium would respect both European obligations and national laws.
The legal groundwork for this collaboration was laid during the previous legislative term, but the new decree now allows Frontex personnel to be deployed under clearly defined conditions.
Reform in 2026
Meanwhile, the European Commission plans to propose a major reform of Frontex in 2026. According to a Commission spokesperson quoted by Euronews, the aim is to “strengthen its presence, role and responsibilities.” The reform would include an expansion of staff, resources, and border control equipment, as well as increased involvement in border management and operations in non-EU countries.
Frontex director Hans Leijtens speaks to Frontex agents © PHOTO NIKOLAY DOYCHINOV / AFP
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