The Salzburg Forum, a group of nine countries established to promote international police cooperation and combat illegal migration, emphasized the importance of Bosnia and Herzegovina for the security of the Schengen area. Croatian, Slovenian, and Italian interior ministers stated that the police’s task is to fight organized crime and protect EU citizens. Special emphasis was placed on cooperation at the border between Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia with BiH through a tripartite police patrol. European Commissioner for Home Affairs Magnus Brunner expressed satisfaction with the signing of the Frontex status agreement in BiH, allowing the deployment of permanent EU forces along BiH’s borders. Challenges related to the misalignment of visa regimes in Western Balkan countries and the need for further cooperation in combating migrant smuggling and human trafficking were also highlighted.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning sources emphasize the humanitarian aspects of migration and the need for cooperation to protect migrants’ rights while ensuring security. They highlight the importance of international collaboration and criticize strict border controls that may harm vulnerable populations.
Center: Center-leaning sources focus on the practical aspects of security cooperation, highlighting the importance of joint patrols and agreements like the Frontex status deal to maintain Schengen zone security. They stress balanced approaches between security and migration management.
Right: Right-leaning sources emphasize the need for strong border controls and the fight against illegal migration and organized crime. They support the tripartite police patrols and the role of BiH as a key buffer state to protect the EU’s external borders.
