The new report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) investigates the involvement of organized criminal groups in the smuggling of migrants from West Africa towards the European Union (EU).

Belgian coastal police zones tested drone surveillance during summer 2026 as part of efforts to prevent irregular crossings to the United Kingdom by small boats. Following an evaluation meeting on 10 September, the West Flanders acting governor announced plans to develop the approach on a structural basis in 2027, subject to external funding.

A pan-european operation dismantled a migrant smuggling network, generating 77 arrests.

On 7 and 8 October, the JHA Council held its 3260th meeting, discussing several topics, including the recent case of Lampedusa, the protection of Syrian refugees and freedom of movement.