UK, France agree 3‑year deal to curb Channel crossings
DW.com • • general
Key Points:
- The UK and France have agreed on a new three-year deal to reduce undocumented migrant crossings in the English Channel, with France increasing coastal patrols by over 50% and the UK providing up to €766 million in funding.
- The agreement includes deploying law enforcement, intelligence, and military personnel on northern French beaches, establishing a 50-strong riot police unit, expanding intelligence and judicial teams, and enhancing maritime patrols with new vessels and officers.
- Surveillance measures will be upgraded with drones, helicopters, and improved camera systems to better intercept small boats attempting crossings.
- The deal renews the Sandhurst Treaty amid rising small-boat crossings, which reached around 41,000 in 2025, the highest since 2018, prompting UK criticism of France’s previous efforts.
- French officials report a 50% drop in arrivals in 2026 compared to last year and the arrest of about 480 smugglers in 2025, while the UK says joint efforts have stopped over 42,000 attempted crossings since July 2024.
