CSD Policy Brief No. 30: Practices and Forms of Cooperation between Customs and Border Guards in the European Union
CSD Policy Brief No. 30: Practices and Forms of Cooperation between Customs and Border Guards in the European Union

Author(s): Author Not Specified
Subject(s): Security and defense
Published by: Център за изследване на демокрацията
Keywords: Schengen; border control;
Summary/Abstract: KEY FINDINGS ››› In Member States there are various forms of cooperation between customs and border guards: Strategic planning, communication and exchange of information, coordination of workflow at border crossing points (BSPs), joint risk analysis, joint criminal investigations, joint special operations and control outside BCPs („blue” and „green” borders), use of joint mobile groups, joint professional training. ››› Cooperation aims to enhance effectiveness of securing the external borders of the EU and the Customs Union, as well as efficiency that makes best use of the limited financial resources of the two institutions. ››› Cooperation challenges that customs and border guards face comprise legal and operational obstacles, different institutional cultures, and political pressure over the management bodies of the two institutions. ››› Bulgaria falls into a group of Member States where the level of cooperation between customs and border guards is most limited and often characterized by mistrust and competition. ››› The Government of Bulgaria, the Customs Agency and the Border Police should adopt best cooperation practices in order to increase the security of the external borders of the European Union.

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