Frontex complaints mechanism report receives MEPs' support

Members of the European Parliament gave a resounding vote of approval late yesterday to a report concerning the establishment of a complaints mechanism for Frontex, authored by MEP Roberta Metsola and German MEP Ska Keller.

This report aims to strengthen Frontex by supporting the recommendation of the European Ombudsman that Frontex should further ensure the safeguarding of fundamental rights by setting up an individual complaints mechanism. While the report commends the efforts made by the Agency, the implementation of a complaints mechanism ensures all those affected have a clear mechanism to have their voice heard.

Speaking in the European Parliament, co-rapporteur of the report MEP Roberta Metsola welcomed the vote, stating that “In these trying times, it is within our European values that we should seek answers to the challenges we face.

“The setting up of an individual complaints mechanism is a good step forward, will reinforce Frontex and will provide an avenue for people to exercise their right to a more effective remedy. It means that Frontex and the EU institutions and bodies are more aware of any possible violations of fundamental rights that could otherwise remain undetected, unreported or unresolved.”

Metsola also emphasised, “This report does not impinge on the principle of subsidiarity and the distinct competences of the EU and its Member States on these matters.

“This report specifically states that Frontex has no competence to initiate disciplinary measures against persons other than its own staff members and that the Frontex Regulation makes it clear that disciplinary measures fall under the exclusive competence of the home Member State.”

The report also calls on the European Commission and its Member States to provide Frontex with the necessary additional resources to handle the complaints received.