Strengthening capacities for efficient border management: EU law workshop held

As part of the “EU Support for Efficient Border Management” project, funded by the European Union, a workshop on “EU Law in the Field of Integrated Border Management” was held in Vrdnik on February 27-28, 2025. The workshop gathered over 20 representatives from the Border Police Directorate, Customs Administration, and border phytosanitary and veterinary inspection, aiming to enhance their knowledge and application of European regulations in border surveillance, visa policy, and Schengen evaluation.

During the two-day program, participants had the opportunity to learn about the Convention Implementing the Schengen Agreement and the Schengen Borders Code (Regulation 399/2019), which define EU standards for external border control. Special attention was given to the Schengen Catalogue for border surveillance, return, and readmission, as well as the Schengen Practical Handbook for border police officers. The training also covered EU visa policy through Regulation 810/2009 and the Schengen evaluation process (Regulation 2022/922). In addition, new digital solutions such as the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).

The workshop also focused on key EU strategic documents, including the Frontex Regulation, as well as the technical and operational aspects of the EU Integrated Border Management Strategy. Participants explored the fundamental principles and action plan for implementing this strategy, particularly emphasising cooperation between institutions in Serbia.