EU-funded border control bid launched

Project aims to facilitate trade development

A project for developing the national capacity for border control was recently launched. The project is funded by the European Union. It will be implemented by the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), an Austria-based international organization, through the Customs and General Security. The project has a budget of $4.6 million and will be implemented over a period of three years.

The initiative aims to support local authorities in securing the borders. It involves facilitating trade development and human contact. “Examples of this could include greater use of e-systems, the development of Customs-to-business working relationships, simplified clearance procedures, greater use of non-intrusive examination technology such as x-ray scanners, and increased use of joint controls with General Security,” said Phil Johnson, the ICMPD’s project manager. The initial ‘setting up’ processes are underway.

Through the project, the ICMPD will offer training, human resources development, situation evaluations, and equipment. It will also be conducting workshops and arranging study visits to EU border management institutions. “I am now based permanently in Lebanon as the long-term expert for the project,” Johnason said.

According to Johnson, trade facilitation is just one side of the Integrated Border Management (IBM) concept. The other side involves border security and protecting citizens from the harmful effects of drugs, weapons, counterfeits, and fraud. “By combining resources with other border management agencies such as the General Security, it will also be possible to increase the detection levels of these sorts of crimes,” he said.

The ICMPD will collaborate with non-governmental entities, including NGOs and private sector stakeholders.