On 15-16 April 2025, a delegation from the European Parliament’s Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs Committee (LIBE) visited the ports of Antwerp and Rotterdam to examine efforts to strengthen port security and tackle drug trafficking. Meetings with local, regional, and national stakeholders highlighted both the challenges and successful practices, particularly those developed through the EU Port Alliance’s public-private cooperation.
Delegation Chair Fabrice Leggeri emphasised the need for reinforced EU cooperation while recognising the importance of tailored approaches that reflect the unique circumstances of each port. Information-sharing and strategic data use were highlighted as key tools to counter criminal activities and support an effective EU-level response.
The delegation also stressed the need for strong social policies to prevent the recruitment of vulnerable groups and the importance of protecting port staff from criminal infiltration.
FEPORT welcomes the LIBE Committee’s focus on these crucial issues, which align closely with the objectives of ProtectEU and the forthcoming EU Ports Strategy.
Source: European Parliament.
