The UK Prime Minister has called for greater international collaboration to dismantle criminal networks that profit from illegal migration.
Speaking at the European Political Community (EPC) meeting in Budapest, he urged European leaders to increase joint efforts to crack down on people smuggling gangs, specifically by strengthening partnerships in the Western Balkans.
This push includes signing new agreements with Serbia, North Macedonia, and Kosovo to combat these operations at the source and ensure safer borders across Europe.
A United Front Against Smuggling Networks
At the EPC meeting on 7 November, the Prime Minister highlighted the pressing need for a unified European approach to tackle criminal gangs exploiting vulnerable people. These organized networks profit from illegal migration, often operating in dangerous and complex routes that put lives at risk.
The Western Balkans, a major transit area for migrants attempting to enter the UK or EU, is now a focal point for these efforts.
According to the PM,
“There is a criminal empire operating on our continent, exacting a horrendous human toll and undermining our national security.”
He called for an end to these illegal crossings and affirmed the UK’s commitment to leading the charge.
“We need to go further and faster, alongside our international partners, and take the fight directly to the heart of these vile people smuggling networks,” he added.
New Partnerships to Strengthen Borders
In Budapest, the Prime Minister announced fresh agreements with Serbia, North Macedonia, and Kosovo. These partnerships will improve intelligence sharing and enable targeted operations to dismantle trafficking routes.
With nearly 100,000 migrants passing through the Western Balkans last year, this region remains a major route for illegal migration. By intercepting criminal gangs early in their operations, the new partnerships aim to break down networks before they reach UK shores.
UK Partnerships in the Western Balkans
Country |
Partnership Focus |
|---|---|
| Serbia | Intelligence sharing, joint operations |
| North Macedonia | Increased cooperation against trafficking routes |
| Kosovo | Enhanced monitoring and law enforcement support |
| Albania (existing) | Anti-illicit finance operations, gang disruption |
The Role of the UK Border Security Command
Backing these diplomatic efforts is the newly bolstered UK Border Security Command. With an additional £75 million in funding, this command unit will support tech advancements and expand staffing to monitor and secure the UK’s borders more effectively.
The funds will enhance operations by using advanced surveillance and investigative techniques, boosting the command’s capacity to detect and dismantle trafficking networks.
According to the government, these intensified efforts have already led to the return of 9,400 people with no right to remain in the UK this year—a 19% increase from 2023.
A New Approach to Combatting Migration-Related Crime
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper echoed the importance of these agreements, emphasizing how collaboration with the Western Balkans will be critical in stopping traffickers before they reach the UK.
“Our work with our partners in the Western Balkans is absolutely key to dismantling the criminal networks that orchestrate the exploitation of vulnerable people for financial gain,” Cooper said.
The Prime Minister’s recent speech at the Interpol Conference in Glasgow underscored this commitment to disrupting organized immigration crime, likening it to the global fight against terrorism.
By increasing international intelligence-sharing and coordinating efforts across European nations, the government hopes to create lasting security improvements across borders.
Broader Goals of the EPC Meeting
The EPC meeting, however, wasn’t solely about migration. The Prime Minister also engaged with European leaders on other matters critical to the UK, including:
- Economic Cooperation: Working towards stronger economic ties that will benefit both the UK and its European partners.
- Support for Ukraine: Reinforcing the UK’s commitment to support Ukraine amidst ongoing conflicts, including opposition to Russian aggression.
- Collective Security: Discussing broader security measures to ensure a safer Europe for all member nations.
As part of a series of diplomatic engagements, the EPC represents the Prime Minister’s broader vision for resetting and strengthening the UK’s relationships across Europe.
With a focus on delivering tangible outcomes, these partnerships aim to foster greater security and prosperity for UK citizens.
Sources: THX News, Prime Minister’s Office, 10 Downing Street & The Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer KCB KC MP.
