EU Migration Chief Calls for Tougher Leverage Over Morocco

Brunner told a European Parliament committee that depending on the voluntary cooperation of a single transit state leaves the EU inherently vulnerable. The current model, which exchanges financial aid for tighter border security, faces mounting criticism from those who argue it grants transit countries undue political influence. By easing or tightening border controls, these partners can effectively hold the bloc hostage to their own economic and political agendas.

The situation on the ground remains volatile. Juan Jesus Vivas, the mayor of Ceuta, reported that approximately 100 people perished during the recent crossing. With thousands of migrants still in the enclave, Vivas openly challenged the reliability of Moroccan authorities, urging Brussels to assume direct oversight of its only land border with Africa. Brunner emphasized that the EU must now move beyond soft incentives, deploying all available diplomatic and economic instruments to secure enforceable readmission and return agreements.