08/11/2019 (Agence Europe) – The European Commission takes “very seriously” any allegation of violation of migrants' rights and abuse against them by the authorities of Croatia, country for which the Commission has just recommended to the EU Council access to the Schengen area (see EUROPE 12354/2). In response to a Human Rights Watch report of violence by Croatian border guards and denial of entry, the Commission indicated on Friday 8 November, that it was in contact with the Croatian authorities who will conduct an investigation. However, the Commission was already aware of these allegations at the time of writing its recommendation report to Member States and “continues to believe that Croatia is fulfilling all its obligations”. A mechanism to monitor the compliance of border guard practices with European law has also been put in place, the Commission said. (SP)