Activities of the European Ombudsman – annual report 2023

Tabled by Nikos Pappas, Damien Carême

Added: 13a. Welcomes the opening of an own-initiative inquiry aimed at clarifying Frontex’s role in search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean Sea, following the Pylos shipwreck in 2023, which resulted in at least 700 people drowning off the Greek coast; highlights the fact that the Ombudsman asked Frontex to do more to ensure that it complies with its fundamental rights obligations with regard to search and rescue in the context of its maritime surveillance activities; recalls that the Ombudsman decision mentions that Frontex units should respond when they detect boats in potential emergency situations in the context of their specific and unique activities, including regarding the issuance of emergency signals; notes that the inquiry also demonstrated the need for greater clarity on roles and responsibilities and, importantly, on the nature of Frontex’s cooperation with national authorities; highlights the opening of a separate inquiry aiming at ensuring that the fundamental rights of migrants are respected during ‘debriefing interviews’; recalls that Frontex, like all EU institutions, bodies and agencies, has an obligation to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms as outlined in the Treaties and the Charter;

Wording as published by the EP, in English. PE766.535v01-00