Reactions to the European Commission’s proposal to upgrade Frontex

The European Commission’s plan to upgrade Frontex from a European agency with 1 500 employees into a complimentary European border and coast guard with 10 000 armed guards by 2020 has caused mixed reactions in the European Union. Under the proposal, €12.6 bn would be allocated to Frontex between 2019 and 2027, with the agency supporting national border patrols as well as coast guards and operating at the command of national authorities.

News Highlights: International group enters Eritrea, Violence in Libya traps migrants, Italy and Hungary to form ‘anti-migration front’

In this week’s news highlights: A group of international researchers and academics cross into Eritrea to assess the situation; German minister visits Eritrea; Ethiopian PM holds press conference promising continued reforms; Heavy rain has caused damage in Sudan; South Sudan rebel leader ready to sign comprehensive peace deal; Clashes in Libya trap migrants and refugees in detention centres; Italy and Hungary form anti-migration front; Italian deputy PM threatens to block EU budget; NGO concerned about situation on Greek Island; and Germany experiences far-right protests and violence.