In recent months, several European countries have reintroduced border controls, putting the core principles of the Schengen area under pressure.
These measures are justified by growing concerns about irregular migration and security threats, but at the same time they cause inconvenience to travellers and raise questions about the future of free movement within the European Union.
domestic security
Germany took the initiative by reintroducing border controls at all land borders in September 2024. The decision came in response to a significant increase in irregular migration flows. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said: “Domestic security comes first, which is why we are taking this necessary step. We remain committed to a humane but strict approach to irregular migration.” Since the introduction of the controls, German police have checked thousands of vehicles and travelers, resulting in hundreds of arrests in connection with human trafficking and illegal immigration.
counter-terrorism
Shortly after the German announcement, France followed suit with a similar measure. As of November 1, 2024, border controls will be reinstated at the borders with Spain, Italy, Germany and other neighboring countries. The French Ministry of the Interior pointed to an increased terrorist threat and stressed that the measures are aimed at safeguarding national security. In a statement, the ministry said: “These controls are necessary to protect our citizens at a time of increasing threats.” The French government stressed that the measure is temporary, but many experts fear that the situation could set a precedent.
Marjolein Faber
The Netherlands did not lag behind. Minister of Asylum and Migration, Marjolein Faber, announced that border controls will be introduced at the Dutch internal borders from 9 December 2024. “Human trafficking and irregular migration pose a serious challenge to our society. We must do everything in our power to combat this,” said Faber. The Royal Marechaussee will carry out the checks, with special attention to vehicles passing through border crossings. Travelers are advised to always carry valid travel documents, even when traveling to neighboring countries.
The measures have significant consequences for travellers within Europe. Where the Schengen area was once praised for removing border barriers, long queues and intensive checks are now symbolic of the tightened regulations. Travellers are advised to plan extra time and have their documents in order. Critics point out that these measures undermine confidence in the Schengen system and represent a step backwards for European integration.
European Union
The European Commission has expressed its concerns about the reintroduction of border controls. While Member States have the right to take such measures in exceptional circumstances, the Commission stressed that they should be short-term and should not undermine the very foundations of the Schengen area. Vice-President Margaritis Schinas said: “We need to strike a balance between security and freedom. The Schengen area is one of the EU’s greatest achievements and cannot be sacrificed lightly.”
tension around Schengen
Border controls have been provisionally introduced for a period of six months, but the possibility of an extension remains a real scenario. Political analysts point out that the repeated use of temporary measures poses a risk to the sustainability of the Schengen system. The coming months will be crucial in determining the course that Europe takes in dealing with migration and security.
