Guardians of Borders, Guardians of Rights: A Study of Frontex's Accountability in Joint Operations within Third Countries

Details

Supervisors

Piquet, Agathe

Faculty

Faculté des sciences économiques, sociales, politiques et de communication

Degree label

Master [120] en études européennes, à finalité spécialisée: gouvernance et sociétés européennes

Abstract

This thesis examines the responsibility of Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard agency, in its joint operations within third countries. It presents an analysis of the evolving role of FRONTEX in the management of the external borders of the European Union, highlighting the complexities and critical issues surrounding accountability and respect for fundamental rights. The study focuses on the delegation of border management powers from individual EU Member States to the EU, which is necessary to ensure free movement within the Union and to establish the operational framework for Frontex. Frontex is responsible for planning, implementing and financing joint border control and repatriation operations using resources provided by the Member States. Despite its important role, FRONTEX is strongly criticised for its cooperation activities with third countries. The research here will be to understand the accountability frameworks applicable to FRONTEX. The study also explores the distribution of responsibilities and decision-making power between FRONTEX and host third countries, and how these elements influence the allocation of responsibility for potential violations of rights. For a nuanced understanding, this thesis includes case studies in particular of Senegal and Albania with the aim of examining practical challenges and successes in the area of accountability and protection of fundamental rights.