UK Signs New Deals with Balkans to Combat People-Smuggling Networks

Prime Minister Keir Starmer announces agreements with Serbia, North Macedonia, and Kosovo to enhance intelligence sharing and dismantle smuggling operations.

The UK aims to curb small boat crossings by targeting people-smuggling gangs operating through the Western Balkans, a key route for illegal migration.
Almost 100,000 migrants traveled through the Western Balkans last year, highlighting the region's significance in migration paths to the EU and UK.
The new agreements will facilitate greater cooperation and intelligence sharing with Balkan countries to intercept and arrest smuggling gangs.
The UK has increased funding for its Border Security Command to enhance its efforts in tackling organized immigration crime.
Prime Minister Starmer emphasizes the need for international cooperation, urging European partners to join efforts in reducing migrant deaths in the Channel.