Ukraine’s Southern Border Guards have received technical support from EUBAM, facilitated by the International Organization for Migration. This critical aid is set to strengthen border security and enhance the operational efficiency of Ukraine’s border defense.
The support package, valued at over $130,000, includes essential equipment such as explosive disposal kits, autonomous video surveillance cameras powered by solar panels, tactical communication headsets, and first aid kits. These tools are expected to make a significant impact on the effectiveness of border operations.
At the handover ceremony, officer in charge of EUBAM Lajos Zsolt Karakas underscored the importance of the collaboration, stating, “We stand united in our commitment to Ukraine’s security by providing vital equipment, including first aid supplies and surveillance technology. These tools represent our unwavering solidarity and shared dedication to safeguarding borders. Your courage in defending Ukraine inspires us all.”
On 5 September, EUBAM and the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine (ESBU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding, laying the foundation for a strengthened partnership. The agreement outlines a commitment to collaborate closely and consult on matters of mutual interest, focusing on fighting customs fraud aimed at evading national revenues.
Under the memorandum, the parties will also identify emerging threats, crime trends, and specific investigations. “By uniting, we are enhancing our ability to tackle customs frauds effectively. This partnership marks a step towards safeguarding the economic security of Ukraine and contributing to its resilience against unjustified Russian war of aggression,” said Head of EUBAM Slawomir Pichor after the signing ceremony.
On 14 August, a workshop on combating migrant smuggling was held at the Palanca-Maiaky-Udobne Joint Border Crossing Point, led by Milko Merdzhanov, Head of the EUBAM Office in Ukraine. The workshop brought together officials from six different services from Moldova and Ukraine, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in addressing this serious issue.
The event featured two experts from the General Directorate of Combating Organized Crime of the Republic of Bulgaria, who shared their extensive experience in combating migrant smuggling. Their presentation included an overview of investigative methods, intelligence-gathering techniques, and key considerations when investigating such crimes. They also presented two case studies showcasing successful investigations of migrant smuggling in Bulgaria.
In addition to the insights from Bulgarian experts, representatives from the General Inspectorate of Border Police and the Security and Intelligence Service of the Republic of Moldova provided an overview of the current challenges in detecting and investigating migrant smuggling within their country. Similarly, officials from the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine, the Security Service of Ukraine, and the National Police of Ukraine shared their experiences and challenges in combating this crime.
The workshop concluded with a discussion on the opportunities and challenges of international and interagency cooperation in combating migrant smuggling. Participants emphasized the need for continued collaboration and information sharing to effectively address this complex issue. This workshop reflects EUBAM’s ongoing commitment to strengthening border security and fostering cooperation between Moldova and Ukraine to combat cross-border crimes, including migrant smuggling.
On 15 July, Head of EUBAM Slawomir Pichor and Deputy Prime Minister for Reintegration Oleg Serebrian held a working meeting and discussed various activities that EUBAM implements in collaboration with Moldovan national authorities.
These initiatives aim to support the European Union integration process of the Republic of Moldova in customs, market surveillance, and consumer protection sectors. The efforts are particularly important as they contribute to the application of EU requirements on both banks of the Nistru River, allowing traders to access the EU market.
EUBAM has provided technical assistance worth 123,000 euros to the Moldovan Customs Service to enhance its operational capabilities. The donation includes servers, smart batteries, and printers to improve the service’s efficiency and reliability.
Head of EUBAM, Slawomir Pichor, met with Viorel Doaga, the Acting Head of the Moldovan Customs Service, to discuss the e-queue system and the New Computerised Transit System (NCTS) in the Republic of Moldova, both designed to facilitate trade and quicker processing of goods in transit at border crossing points. Slawomir Pichor also received an overview of the current state of implementing coordinated control at the Giurgiulesti-Galati border crossing point between the Republic of Moldova and Romania. Additionally, they discussed EUBAM’s upcoming support for the Moldovan Customs Service, including capacity building, technical assistance, and operational activities.
Using the opportunity, the EUBAM Head presented the Moldovan Customs Service with a donation from a larger package aimed at supporting border and customs authorities in both the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine. The Moldovan Customs Service is now equipped with new servers and components to enhance the performance and data integrity of the NCTS system. Network equipment, such as switches and antennas, will enable customs officers to set up local networks for peripheral workstations. UPS and smart server batteries will ensure an uninterrupted power supply during power cuts. Additionally, 15 multifunctional printers have been provided to ensure office operability, and 25 iPads enable Customs Posts to monitor real-time traffic on control lanes, streamlining traffic at the border and optimizing the actions of customs officers.
“EUBAM is proud to support our partners with the equipment essential for modern border management, promoting European Union standards and procedures for quicker crossings of people and goods. We are committed to contributing to a strong foundation for our partners on their European Union journey ahead,” emphasized Slawomir Pichor, Head of EUBAM.
On 25 June, EUBAM cross-border crime expert Flavius Onofrei participated as main speaker and co-host in a webinar discussing lessons from the KPMG 2023 report on illicit cigarette consumption in Europe. He highlighted trends in the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine, noting a surge in illicit cigarette demand and consumption on the domestic markets of these two countries in the last two years. Disrupting important regular supply chains of illicit whites in the region and closing Ukrainian ports because of Russia’s large-scale aggression against Ukraine led both to a certain reorientation of illicit traffic routes and, in particular, to an increase in clandestine factories in Europe.
To address border security and bolster resilience, EUBAM has intensified operational assistance and capacity building for border and customs authorities in both countries. Also, due attention was given to increasing the security of the EU’s external borders and strengthening cross-border operational cooperation. Last year, EUBAM facilitated cross-border cooperation, supporting several successful investigations. A major achievement was dismantling an organized criminal group producing illicit cigarettes in the Czech Republic, resulting in a EUR 5 million tax revenue loss, seizure of over 17 million illegal cigarettes, and the arrest of 22 individuals, mainly Moldovan and Ukrainian nationals.
On 20 June, the MD-RO-UA Regional Customs Coordination Group convened at the Galaţi border crossing point in Romania, with the EUBAM Head, Slawomir Pichor, leading the session. The meeting focused on reviewing progress in border management and improving customs procedures in the Lower Danube region.
The Group received a comprehensive overview of the operational situation at the border, including waiting times, queues, and measures to speed up customs clearance. The Head of EUBAM highlighted significant recent developments, attributing them to the collective efforts of all stakeholders. A key achievement is the successful implementation of joint control at the Reni-Giurgiulești BCP, aimed at streamlining procedures and reducing border crossing times between Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova. Moldovan and Ukrainian colleagues shared lessons learned and initial results from this joint control implementation.
Additionally, the recent political agreement between Romania and the Republic of Moldova to introduce coordinated control at the Giurgiulești-Galați BCP will further accelerate the movement of goods and people across the borders of the Republic of Moldova, Romania, and Ukraine. Participants visited the BCP lanes designated for extension and discussed the refurbishment needs to launch coordinated control effectively.
The customs authorities agreed that implementing the National Customs Transit System (NCTS) in the Republic of Moldova will also simplify customs transit formalities and further expedite border crossings. Moldovan authorities plan to pilot the NCTS system on 1 July 2024, including at the two discussed BCPs.
The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of continued collaboration and timely implementation of the discussed solutions to improve regional connectivity and support the EU-UA Solidarity Lanes Initiative. For the first time, Border Police representatives from the Republic of Moldova and Romania attended the meeting, underscoring the Group’s role in alleviating traffic congestion on transportation routes for Ukraine’s exports. This forum fosters collaboration among the Customs Authorities of the Republic of Moldova, Romania, and Ukraine and serves as a platform for other relevant institutions.
On 20 June, the Head of the EUBAM Office in Moldova, Anssi Kartila, and Agnieszka Wawrzyk, Team Leader of the Transnistrian Settlement Team, hosted a pivotal meeting with a high-level OSCE delegation and discussed the current trade situation in the Transnistrian region in the aftermath of the unjustified Russian war of aggression in Ukraine.
The meeting was a dynamic exchange where EUBAM briefed their OSCE guests on ongoing activities and efforts in Moldova and Ukraine. They highlighted significant challenges and opportunities in stabilizing and revitalizing trade in the Transnistrian region. This discussion underscored the collaborative efforts needed to navigate the current landscape’s complexities and foster economic resilience in the region.
The OSCE was represented by Catherine Fearon, Director of the Conflict Prevention Center; Ambassador Kelly Keiderling, Head of Mission; Izabela Hartmann, Deputy Head of Mission; Alessandra Rognoni, Head of the Eastern Europe Desk; and Vitalie Savin, National Program Officer.
EUBAM jointly with CELBET between 10-14 June organized a study visit to the X-ray Image Analysis and Training Center of the National Revenue Administration of Poland / CELBET Center of Expertise in Gdansk and a visit to Gdynia port’s Baltic Container Terminal. The visit was aimed to exchange experience and best practices in handling X-ray scanning systems and analyzing scanned images as well as in development of training/education standards in this field.
Three representatives of the Customs Service from the Republic of Moldova and three delegates of the customs authority from Ukraine together with partners from EUBAM and CELBET gained new knowledge from their Polish colleagues. During the visit, participants were impressed by the state-of-the-art technology and expertise at the X-ray Image Analysis and Training Center. The center’s commitment to professional development and training improvement was evident in their comprehensive approach to handling X-ray scanning systems and analyzing scanned images.
This exchange of experience will undoubtedly contribute to the enhancement of non-intrusive control methods and strengthen collaboration among customs officers from Ukraine, Moldova, and Poland. EUBAM remains committed to enhancing non-intrusive control methods and fostering collaboration between Ukrainian and Moldovan customs officers.
From June 12 to 13, Moldovan Border Police communications officers were on a two-day study trip to Estonia to exchange knowledge with their counterparts on several critical areas. Organized in cooperation with Estonian Centre for International Development ESTDEV and EUBAM, this initiative aimed to foster collaboration in strategic communication.
The Estonian Police and Border Guard Board (PPA) stands as a notable success, earning significant public trust and ranking among the highest in state institutions. This achievement underscores the effectiveness of long-term and targeted efforts, even amidst complex operating environments and hybrid threats.
During the visit, Estonia’s team shared invaluable knowledge on crucial topics, including crisis communication, countering online and offline disinformation, and enhancing public trust through effective strategies.
This study trip equipped Moldovan Border Police with not only tools but also strategic approaches to enhance their communication efforts, aiming to bolster public trust, increase transparency, and promote greater cooperation between the public and law enforcement agencies, creating a meaningful impact.
As Moldova progresses as a candidate country for the European Union, upcoming presidential elections and an EU accession referendum in October have amplified hostile influence activities, particularly on social media. “The better state institutions protect themselves against such threats, the more assured their chosen path will be,” emphasized Mailin Aasmae, EUBAM Media and Communication Officer.
Representatives from the Moldovan Customs Service and the State Inspectorate for the Supervision of Non-Food Products and Consumer Protection recently participated in a collaborative workshop in Gdansk, Poland. Facilitated by EUBAM, the workshop focused on enhancing cooperation between customs and market surveillance authorities.
The event, which followed a successful study visit to Germany’s Market Surveillance Department in Tübingen last year, aimed to bolster professional skills and implement European standards in consumer protection practices. Participants engaged in fruitful discussions, exchanged best practices, and explored avenues for joint initiatives.
This initiative underscores the commitment of the Republic of Moldova to ensure imported goods comply with safety and health standards, raise importer awareness, and safeguard consumer rights.
On 12 June, in Odesa, the Head of the European Union Border Assistance Mission to Moldova and Ukraine (EUBAM), Slawomir Pichor, held a series of meetings with Ukrainian partners and discussed current challenges and EUBAM activities in the region, including those of common interest. These discussions underscore Mission’s unwavering support for its Ukrainian partners during these challenging times.
In a meeting with the Acting Head of Odesa Customs, Yurii Cherdyntsev, the discussions focused on the operational situation at border crossing points (BCPs), their workload, and cargo flow. Particular attention was given to the operability of joint BCPs, such as those recently launched in Reni (road) and Kuchurhan (rail) as well as to anti-smuggling customs operations.
Following this, Slawomir Pichor met with Brigadier General Yurii Petriv, Head of the Southern Regional Directorate of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine. They discussed border security threats induced by the ongoing war, current border challenges, and countermeasures including those conducted with Moldovan partners. The introduction of the E-queue system for buses was also on the agenda.
The day concluded with a meeting with Oleksandr Kharlov, the First Deputy Head of Odesa Regional Military Administration. They discussed the current developments at road, rail and river border crossing points, including Odesa Black Sea ports, in the context of Ukrainian exports. The parties also emphasized the successful implementation of the Air Transfer project, supported by EUBAM.
Slawomir Pichor stressed that EUBAM remains steadfast in its mission to promote secure and efficient border management, ensuring the continued partnership and progress with Ukrainian and Moldovan authorities. “Despite the ongoing war, we continue to collaborate closely with our Ukrainian partners, helping them navigate current challenges. We are dedicated to supporting their efforts during this difficult time and fostering their development and cooperation with Moldovan colleagues. I firmly believe that through our joint efforts, we can enhance border management and make the border more secure” said the Head of EUBAM.
On 6 June EUBAM experts had a productive meeting with colleagues from the Izmail Border Guard Detachment of the Ukrainian Border Guard Service. This gathering came on the heels of launching joint control at the Reni-Giurgiulesti Joint Border Crossing Point (JOBCP) in May. During the meeting, both sides discussed the initial experiences, results, and specific needs related to the joint control efforts with Moldovan counterparts.
EUBAM proposed several avenues for potential support and explored additional ways to enhance collaboration for effective border management. In particular, the Mission`s initiative on organizing webinar on Synchronized checks at BCPs was presented, where border and customs officers from EU countries could share their experiences in the effective implementation of the one-stop-shop concept and delegation of powers. EUBAM considers that this would be an opportunity to learn and examine the feasibility of introducing some best practices at the Moldova-Ukraine border.
On 20 May, the Interagency Regional Analytical Group (IRAG) convened at the Odesa HQ for a productive meeting, joined by representatives from the European Union Advisory Mission for Civilian Security Sector Reform Ukraine (EUAM Ukraine).
The primary focus of the meeting was to review the progress of the IRAG 2024 Work Plan and discuss insights from recent analysis reports prepared by members from Ukrainian law enforcement agencies. Key topics included the potential delivery of the Lloyd’s database and exploring support options from EUAM for IRAG, in collaboration with EUBAM.
EUBAM proposed providing valuable assistance to enhance the professional skills of the analytical units of Partner Services within IRAG. This support includes organizing training events and offering technical assistance, in cooperation with EUAM. The next IRAG meeting is scheduled for June-July in Odesa, where further discussions and strategic planning will continue.
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On 16 May, Head of EUBAM Slawomir Pichor took part in the launch of the Reni (UA)-Giurgiulesti (MD) jointly operated border crossing point after its renovation by the Ukrainian authorities. The event took place during a ceremony attended by high level officials of Ukraine, Republic of Moldova, Romania, European Commission, and the United States in the frame of the multilateral meeting in the Quint format concerning the transit of grain products from Ukraine.
EUBAM has been a strong advocate for the jointly operated BCP Reni-Giurgiulesti in all aspects, underscoring its potential to improve traffic flow and enhance connectivity between Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova, and Romania within the EU-Ukraine Solidarity Lanes initiative, particularly now, during these times of severe duress. Within the EU-UA Solidarity Lanes initiative, EU has allocated a staggering €11 million aimed at enhancing the efficiency of the Danube Corridor for both current and future demands.
«This border crossing point unites two countries and represents a very good example of cooperation between the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine and their readiness for enhancements in all customs and border processes. We are constantly supporting the EU-UA Solidarity Lanes in the Lower Danube region and are committed to this initiative. Also, we are glad to be part of these changes and help to make them part of routine on the way towards the European Union», Slawomir Pichor said.
Following the reconstruction, the Moldovan and Ukrainian border and customs controls will be conducted jointly on the Ukrainian side, a shift from the previous arrangement where controls were performed separately on each country’s territory. This upgrade is expected to double at the very least the throughput capacity and streamline transport flows.
Moreover, the stakeholders raised talks at Giurgiulesti (MD)-Galati (RO) border crossing point and set a common agenda on prospects to introduce coordinated control between the Republic of Moldova and Romania at this BCP, which would pave a faster route toward the EU and beyond.
EUBAM will continue to work with its Moldovan and Ukrainian partners for the strengthening of integrated border management between the two countries by encouraging joint border control at border crossing points and information sharing between the agencies.
In a proactive move to counter transborder criminal activities, EUBAM brought together the police forces of Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova on 30 April for a dialogue between law enforcement agencies.
During the discussions, police professionals from the Main Directorate of the National Police in Odesa region and the General Police Inspectorate of Moldova discussed strategies to bolster cooperation, exchange vital contacts, and share expertise. The primary focus was on combating the threats posed by drug and weapon trafficking, as well as the surge in human trafficking along the Moldova-Ukraine border due to Russia’s unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine.
By fostering regional cooperation and implementing robust strategies, the collective efforts of both countries’ police forces are anticipated to bring substantial benefits in the ongoing battle against transborder crime.
Efforts to streamline travel between Odesa and Chisinau airport reached a milestone on 25 April as stakeholders from Moldova and Ukraine gathered to assess progress on the EUBAM-backed Aerotransfer initiative.
With a focus on bolstering regional connectivity, the Odesa Military Administration, alongside Ukrainian Border and Customs Authorities, joined forces with counterparts in Moldova to advance the establishment of a dedicated shuttle bus service linking Odesa and Chisinau airport. Launched in March, the service has already completed a more than 100 trips, facilitating smooth transit for passengers.
As the Aerotransfer buses travel through the Palanca-Maiaky-Udobne jointly operated border crossing point, representatives from Ukraine and Moldova met there to analyze potential avenues for enhancement.
These collaborative efforts manifest cross-border good neighbourliness and symbolize a shared commitment to solidarity and cooperation amid adversity.
On 24 April, EUBAM facilitated a meeting between border crime experts from Moldova and Ukraine to address emerging threats and bolster security along the Moldova-Ukraine border.
Bringing together the Joint Risk Analysis Working Group (JRAWG) from Moldova and the Inter-Agency Analytical Group (IRAG) from Ukraine, the meeting served as a platform for in-depth discussions on current trends in illicit trafficking and cross-border crime. Against the backdrop of risks stemming from transnational organized crime and Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the need for strategic cooperation and information sharing has become increasingly imperative.
Critical discussions revolved around current threats in the Odesa region, where Moldovan and Ukrainian authorities face persistent challenges in combating illicit activities. While border crossing points have remained relatively stable, illegal border crossings and risk for weapon trafficking persist as concerns.
Artur Janiszewski, the customs crime expert from EUBAM, emphasized the critical role of collaboration in confronting these complex security challenges. “Our joint efforts enable us to harness the collective expertise and resources needed to enhance border control measures and effectively counter illegal activities,” remarked Janiszewski.
JRAWG gathers around specialists from General Border Police Inspectorate of the Republic of Moldova, Customs Service of the Republic of Moldova, Security and Intelligence Service of Moldova, General Inspectorate for Migration, General Police Inspectorate and General Prosecutor’s Office of the Republic of Moldova.
IRAG brings together representatives from regional branches of key Ukrainian agencies, including the Ukrainian State Border Guard Service, Ukrainian State Customs Service, Special Service of Ukraine, Bureau of Economic Security of Ukraine and the National Police.
On 17 April, Milko Merdzhanov, Head of EUBAM’s Office in Ukraine, and border expert Asen Likov met with Mykola Romanchuk, Head of the 31st Chernivtsi Detachment of the Ukraine State Border Guard Service, and his team.
The conversation focused on pressing challenges in the area, including illegal border crossings, the ongoing fight against cross-border crime, and enhanced risk assessment capabilities.
EUBAM continues assisting Ukrainian colleagues at border crossing points along the Moldovan-Ukrainian state border by providing useful information, sharing EU experiences and best practices for strengthening border control.
Additionally, talks revolved around leveraging the technical expertise of EU member states to counteract cross-border crimes and make operational decisions regarding border security support.
