The agency's report details investigations into human rights abuses against migrants and refugees at borders from 2020 to 2023. It includes 10 recommendations for enhancing these investigations, such as acquiring additional data from border agencies and incorporating insights from human rights organizations.
Covering the eastern EU borders, the Western Balkans, the Mediterranean Sea and the English Channel, the report highlights failures to assist migrants, inhumane treatment during detentions or pushbacks, and abandonment in remote areas, while excluding asylum administrative procedures.
It notes "serious, recurring, and widespread violations" in border management, with many cases either not investigated or remaining at the preliminary stage.
Reports of life-threatening pushbacks at Polish-Belarusian border
The report found difficulties in pursuing criminal proceedings, particularly in Croatia, Latvia and Poland, often leading to early case closures due to lack of evidence.
In Poland, despite reports of life-threatening pushbacks, no criminal investigations were initiated.
The report acknowledges the challenge of proving such offenses due to their occurrence in remote areas with limited evidence.
However, Poland is noted for its "promising practice" due to a March directive establishing a special team to investigate border abuse, and the regional prosecutor in the eastern city of Lublin has started an investigation into violations at the Polish-Belarusian border.
(mp/gs)
Source: FRA/PAP/x.com/@EURightsAgency
