The European Union received a cautionary warning from the EU’s financial watchdog concerning the EU’s approach to discouraging unauthorized African migrants from journeying to Europe and preventing abuses against individuals attempting the perilous journey. The criticism was highlighted in a report by the European Court of Auditors on the Emergency Trust Fund for Africa, established in 2015 following a significant influx of migrants from war-torn regions like Syria.

Initially endowed with 1.8 billion euros, the fund has now grown to approximately 5 billion euros. Managed by the European Commission, it was designed to address the root causes of migration in Africa such as poverty, conflict, and unemployment. EU auditor Bettina Jakobsen emphasized the need for a more targeted approach, urging the Commission to focus aid where it is most urgently needed in specific regions and countries.

Concerns were raised about the EU’s failure to effectively address human rights risks along migration routes, particularly in Libya, a key departure point for migrants crossing the Mediterranean Sea. The auditors also noted deficiencies in the monitoring of EU funds and equipment aimed at enhancing maritime surveillance and preventing deaths at sea. The report underscored the potential misuse of equipment and funds by unintended parties, as well as challenges in ensuring compliance with the do-no-harm principle.

During a visit to a maritime rescue coordination center on the Libyan coast, auditors discovered delays in operationalizing the center, despite significant EU investment. Italy, tasked with assisting Libya in establishing the center, has primarily managed maritime operations in Libyan waters in the absence of a fully operational center. The EU Commission has agreed to address the report’s recommendations for improvement by enhancing risk mitigation measures and providing detailed sector-specific guidance.

Despite the concerns raised, the Commission reported that the fund had facilitated the voluntary return of over 73,000 migrants to their home countries and supported the creation of 11,087 jobs, primarily in Guinea and Senegal. Additionally, 23,266 individuals received skills training in the first half of 2023. The report highlighted the ongoing challenges in managing migration flows and emphasized the need for more effective and targeted interventions to address the complex issue.