MEPs Call for Greater Data Sharing to Tackle Crime at Antwerp and Rotterdam Ports

Members of the European Parliament have stressed the importance of enhanced data sharing to combat drug trafficking and organized crime at two of Europe’s busiest ports—Antwerp in Belgium and Rotterdam in the Netherlands.

A delegation from the European Parliament’s Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs Committee visited the ports on 14 and 15 April to assess current efforts in fighting illicit activities. During their visit, MEPs met with local authorities and law enforcement officials to gain insights into the challenges facing these key logistical hubs.

Following the visit, Fabrice Leggeri, chair of the delegation, emphasized the crucial role of information exchange in the fight against organized crime. “Sharing of data and information exchange is important,” he said. “Not only to counter and detect a specific criminal activity. But also as a means of giving an overview of providing input to a strategic approach at EU level.”

Leggeri acknowledged the complexities involved in managing data in such sensitive areas, stressing the need for careful policy-making. “We have to find the right balance,” he said, referring to the need to protect individual privacy while equipping authorities with effective tools. This balance, he explained, would be between “ensuring protection of individual privacy and providing the necessary tools for law enforcement.”

Reflecting on the site visits, Leggeri noted that the delegation was impressed with the initiatives already underway. “The visit has given a good overview of the work that is already taking place in Antwerp and Rotterdam,” he said.

However, he also echoed calls for more robust coordination at the EU level. “We have also heard a clear request for further EU cooperation in this area in order to become more successful while at the same time provide flexibility for tailor-made approaches,” Leggeri stated. He pointed out that each port faces unique challenges. “The situation for the different ports is not the same due to geographical location and size and that needs to be taken into account.”

The delegation was composed of Fabrice Leggeri (PfE, France), Assita Kanko (ECR, Belgium), and Sandro Ruotolo (S&D, Italy). Tom Vandendriessche (PfE, Belgium) and Saskia Bricmont (Greens/EFA, Belgium) participated in the visit to Antwerp, while Raquel García Hermida-van der Walle (Renew, Netherlands) joined the group in Rotterdam.

With crime networks continuing to exploit European ports, MEPs are now urging for stronger EU-level collaboration that enhances both operational capacity and legal frameworks, while respecting fundamental rights.

By fLEXI tEAM