Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, today published its Annual Brief 2025, setting out a detailed assessment of irregular migration, cross-border crime and security risks at the EU’s external borders, alongside an outlook for the year ahead. The report provides a consolidated picture of developments across land and sea borders, drawing on operational data, risk analysis and cooperation with national authorities.
The Annual Brief examines how migration routes evolved over the past year, highlighting shifts in pressure between regions and corridors, as well as the continued role of criminal smuggling networks. It also looks at changes in the composition of migration flows by nationality and region of origin, underlining how developments beyond Europe continue to shape movements towards the EU.
Beyond migration, the report reviews progress and challenges in key areas of European border management, including returns, cooperation with partner countries, and the growing impact of hybrid threats targeting the EU’s external borders. It also assesses cross-border crime trends, from migrant smuggling and trafficking in human beings to drug and firearms smuggling.
Looking ahead, the Annual Brief 2025 outlines why the coming year will be a turning point for European border management, with major policy, legal and technological changes on the horizon. It stresses the need for preparedness, strong cooperation and sustained support for Member States as Europe adapts to a more complex and uncertain security environment.
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