Migration experts question effectiveness of border controls

The Council for Integration and Migration (SVR) has stated that border controls are not an effective tool for reducing irregular migration in Europe or preventing mass migration events, such as those seen in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta.

Birgit Glorius, deputy chair of the SVR, noted that migrants often lack an objective understanding of destination countries and current laws, frequently relying on potentially manipulative information from social media. She emphasized the need for better communication regarding legal immigration pathways to reach young migrants.

Regarding recent criticisms of Spain for failing to protect borders or creating pull factors through legalization campaigns, the SVR disagreed with those assessments. Instead, the council recommends prioritizing the implementation of the Common European Asylum System (GEAS) reform, which came into effect on July 12, 2026. The SVR noted that under this reform, all arrivals should undergo screening and have the opportunity to request asylum, a process that was not fully realized in the Ceuta situation.