On 23 April 2026, Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, hosted in Warsaw the first ever in-person meeting of the Capability Development Network (CDN), marking a key milestone in the fourth cycle of the Capability Development Planning (CDP) process. The first physical gathering of the Network represents a key step forward in strengthening structured cooperation on capability development within the entire European Border and Coast Guard community.
The meeting brought together representatives from EU Member States, Schengen Associated Countries, and colleagues from Frontex, highlighting the shared European-level commitment to strengthening capabilities in integrated border management in a coordinated and forward-looking manner. Meeting participants engaged actively throughout the day, contributing to constructive discussions and exchanges, and demonstrating strong support for continued cooperation between Frontex and national authorities within the framework of the CDP process.
Breakout sessions allowed the meeting participants to work in groups on concrete capability-related scenarios, fostering idea exchange, peer learning, and the identification of common challenges and key cooperation opportunities. These sessions provided a space to translate strategic objectives into practical considerations, including how to address capability gaps, enhance interoperability, and explore potential areas for mutual reinforcement, such as joint approaches or coordinated investments.
The interactive format enabled participants to engage directly with the operational realities of capability development across different national contexts, creating a very dynamic and collaborative environment. This hands-on approach was valuable, as it encouraged active participation and practical problem-solving.
The meeting in Warsaw focused on long-term planning across the European Border and Coast Guard (EBCG) community. First, meeting in-person offered the participants an opportunity to build stronger professional relationships through natural interactions in a cohesive group setting. Second, the meeting helped reinforce the capability planning relationship between Frontex, EU Member States, and Schengen Associated Countries in the area of long-term planning. This second achievement helps European stakeholders to work together today to protect the borders of tomorrow through strategic assessment of needs and capability growth options.
As the first physical Capability Development Network meeting, the workshop strengthened cooperation, reinforced mutual trust, and helped contribute to building a more cohesive and effective network. It also underscored the importance of continued engagement, systematic idea exchange, and sustained commitment from all stakeholders involved in the CDP process.
