The Council adopted new rules to strengthen Frontex, the European Agency for the management of operational cooperation at the external borders of the EU. Among the new changes, Frontex will now have the possibility to buy or lease its own equipment (cars, vessels, helicopters, etc.) or to buy such equipment in co-ownership with a Member State. In addition, a mechanism for member states to second national border guards and make available equipment to the agency.

The Council adopted the new rules for Frontex, the European Agency for the management of operational cooperation at the external borders of the EU. The European Parliament had already given its green light to the compromise agreement reached between Council and Parliament in June. The revised rules will strengthen the operational capacities of Frontex in a number of areas.

Among the changes introduced, Frontex will have the possibility to buy or lease its own equipment or to buy such equipment in co-ownership with a Member State. In addition, a mechanism for Member States to second national border guards and make available equipment to the agency will be implemented. "European Border Guard Teams" as the common name for teams deployed during Frontex operations. On the other hand, Frontex will also have a co-leading role regarding joint operations and pilot projects. Furthermore, Frontex will have a strengthened coordinating role as regards joint return operations in full respect for fundamental rights.

The Agency was created in 2004 with the aim to coordinate and assist member states' action in the surveillance and control of the external borders of the EU. Since Frontex became operational, in 2005, its financial resources have increased significantly (from €6 millions in 2005 to €86 millions in 2011).