In a recent development reported by local authorities, Romania witnessed over 7,400 migrants intercepted in 2023 while attempting to cross the border irregularly, with the majority of incidents occurring at the country’s border with Hungary. According to Dinsa Andrei Alexandru, spokesperson for the Arad County border police, Bangladeshis constituted the largest group among those attempting irregular border crossings, with 3,135 individuals detained throughout the year.
The situation sheds light on the challenges faced by migrants seeking entry into Western European countries, often resorting to irregular means despite initially arriving in Romania with valid work permits or visas. Pakistan ranked second in attempted border crossings among South Asian countries, with 810 citizens intercepted, followed by individuals from Nepal, Sri Lanka, and India.
Addressing the complex issue, Romanian authorities have engaged in trilateral cooperation with Hungarian and Turkish counterparts to bolster border security measures. Notably, Turkish officers have been supporting patrols along the border with Romania since March 2022, following an agreement between the two countries sanctioned by Bucharest.
The joint efforts aim to curb irregular migration along the Balkan route, with a particular focus on detecting and preventing human trafficking activities often associated with Turkish-registered freight vehicles. Discussions between Romanian, Hungarian, and Turkish authorities continue, underscoring the ongoing commitment to enhancing cross-border security.
However, challenges persist, as highlighted by Bangladesh’s ambassador to Romania, Md Daud Ali, who emphasized the need for improved transparency in work visa processes to mitigate frustrations among migrants. Ali also stressed the importance of addressing misinformation and irregular employment practices, calling for closer scrutiny in issuing work permits to prevent exploitation and irregular status among migrants.
Despite efforts to streamline visa processes and combat irregular migration, recent changes, including Romania’s accession to the Schengen zone on March 31, have led to shifts in migration patterns and visa issuance rates. As Romania navigates these transitions, ongoing collaboration among stakeholders remains essential to effectively manage migration flows and safeguard border integrity.