Germany is set to criminalize migrant smuggling, a significant step in tackling the Channel crossing crisis.
Berlin: Germany is taking a big step to tackle the issue of migrant boats crossing the Channel. They’re closing a loophole that’s made it easier for smugglers to operate.
Yvette Cooper, the UK Home Secretary, just signed a deal with Germany. This new law will make it illegal to help smuggle migrants into Britain. Right now, that’s not against the law, which has made it tough to stop these smugglers.
So far this year, over 34,000 migrants have crossed the Channel. That’s a lot, but it’s actually a bit lower than last year’s record. Still, it’s a significant number, especially since Labour took power in July.
The agreement also means both countries will share intelligence and work together more closely. They’re gearing up for a meeting with France, Belgium, and the Netherlands to discuss the migration crisis.
Cooper mentioned that Germany is a key partner in fighting migrant smuggling. She believes this new plan will strengthen their partnership and improve border security, ultimately saving lives.
On the German side, Interior Minister Nancy Faeser highlighted the dangers of smuggling. She pointed out that these smugglers often put people in inflatable boats under threats of violence, which is just awful.
Currently, it’s not illegal for migrants to be smuggled through Germany to a non-EU country, like the UK. But that’s about to change. This new law will give German prosecutors more power to tackle the supply and storage of dangerous boat equipment.
This agreement is a first between the UK and Germany. They’re also planning to work on removing smuggler ads from social media and teaming up with Europol to disrupt smuggling networks.