Agreement Initialed on the Deployment of EU Border Guards in Bosnia and Herzegovina
On December 18, 2024, Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) and the European Union (EU) initialed an agreement in Sarajevo to enable the deployment of officers from the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex). This initiative aims to strengthen border management and address security challenges, particularly irregular migration along the Western Balkans route.
The agreement is expected to be formally signed by late February or early March during the anticipated visit of EU Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner, to Sarajevo.
“This is another step in the fight against organized crime and smuggling. At the same time, BiH demonstrates that it is a serious partner of the European Union,” said Nenad Nešić, Minister of Security of BiH.
Luigi Soreca, Head of the EU Delegation to BiH, emphasized the significance of the agreement, noting that 90% of irregular border crossings along the "Balkan Route" occur at the BiH-Croatia border. He also highlighted how individuals from visa-free countries often misuse their status to enter the EU illegally.
“The agreement between BiH and Frontex will allow the EU to assist BiH in managing irregular migration more effectively. It is a crucial step for BiH’s progress towards EU membership,” Soreca stated.
Long-Awaited Agreement
BiH is currently the only country in the region without an operational agreement with Frontex, a key prerequisite for opening EU accession negotiations. The initiative has garnered support from neighboring countries, including ministers from Croatia, Italy, and Slovenia, who view the collaboration as essential for preventing illegal migration and enhancing regional security.
Migration Challenges
Securing BiH’s borders poses significant challenges. Approximately 1,800 border guards are tasked with monitoring over 1,500 kilometers of borders with Croatia, Serbia, and Montenegro—a ratio of one guard per 1.5 kilometers. This situation is expected to worsen as around 600 border officers are set to retire by 2026, straining an already limited workforce.
In 2024, BiH recorded 24,523 irregular migrants, according to the Ministry of Security. Among them, 25% were Moroccans, followed by Afghans (17%), Syrians (14%), Egyptians (8%), and Iranians (7%). A significant majority (74%) were single men, most of whom continued their journey toward Croatia and Western Europe. As of early December, approximately 800 migrants were housed in temporary centers across the country.
A Path Toward EU Integration
This agreement with Frontex marks a significant milestone in BiH’s efforts to manage migration challenges and enhance its border security. Beyond addressing immediate concerns, it underscores BiH’s commitment to aligning with EU standards, advancing its progress toward eventual EU membership.
By partnering with Frontex, BiH gains critical support to improve its border management capabilities, demonstrating its readiness to collaborate on regional and European security initiatives.