A stronger mandate for Europol and its fight against migrant smugglers

MEPs confirm the establishment of the European Centre Against Migrant Smuggling (ECAMS) as a permanent part of Europol. Until now, the Centre has only operated informally; now it will be given a clear legal basis, an extra €50 million and 50 new staff over the period 2025-2027.

The main objective of ECAMS will be to support Member States in dismantling criminal networks that organise illegal migrant smuggling or human trafficking. The centre will involve experts from Europol, Eurojust and Frontex to ensure better coordination between all agencies. The mandate also includes support in identifying victims and vulnerable persons.

The new law also improves operational cooperation: countries will share information and set up joint investigation teams through the secure SIENA channel, and immigration liaison officers in third countries will transmit relevant data to Europol. Europol will be able to deploy its experts directly to the field at the request of states and will now also have powers to cover violations of EU sanctions.

An important part of the new rules is the possibility to process biometric data - such as fingerprints or facial recognition - more efficiently in order to detect false or multiple identities. In doing so, the law insists on strict compliance with data protection rules and proportionality.