MEPs conclude fact-finding mission to Barbate and Algeciras  

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A delegation from the Petitions Committee concluded a visit to south-western Andalusia, where they assessed the working conditions of security forces patrolling EU borders.

A delegation of 10 members conducted a three-day fact-finding mission, from 26 to 28 May, with stops in Algeciras (Cádiz), Barbate (Cádiz) and Seville. They held meetings with petitioners, affected citizens, as well as institutional and operational representatives involved in the fight against organised crime and drug trafficking.

MEPs also exchanged views with representative of the European Police Union from Spain, Austria and Poland, to identify common solutions and fair working conditions for police officers across the EU. In Algeciras, they inspected port facilities and assessed the operational capacity of authorities patrolling the coast.

The mission was undertaken in response to petitions by citizens calling for stronger protection and support for law enforcement authorities, in light of the rise of crimes against officers in Spain and across the EU.

Speaking at the end of the delegation’s visit, Chair Bogdan Rzońca (ECR, PL) said: “The delegation was confronted with different assessments of the security situation in the region. On one hand, the delegation was informed about the government’s Special Security Plan for the Campo De Gibraltar 2018-2025, based on data provided by the government, and its strategic objectives, reinforcements, investments and outcomes, including the commitment to continue this strategic plan with higher levels of investment in the future. On the other hand, the delegation noted multiple complaints from the local authorities and police trade unions about a deteriorating security situation, based on evidence provided by the police trade unions, and the lack of human resources and sufficient equipment.

We have acknowledged that all parties agree on the need to reinforce the protection of the security forces at different levels, in order improve their safety, their labour rights, and their physical and mental health and more public investment is needed.

We have confirmed, by listening to all the parties involved, that drug trafficking and human smuggling in the Campo de Gibraltar has become more dangerous and violent at this important gateway into Europe, thus creating a strain on this part of the EU southern border. These gangs pose a real danger and several parties have called for their violent acts against law enforcement officers not to be unpunished and to be considered as “euro crimes”, thus facing harsher sentences. At the same time, the majority of people we spoke with expressed the need for law enforcement officers to be adequately protected (“protect those who protect us”) and to be recognised as a high-risk profession at the EU level.”

Next steps

The findings collected during the visit will be compiled into a final report, drafted by the European Parliament’s Committee on Petitions, which will include recommendations.

Members of the delegation:


Accompanying members:

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