Schengen Area in Focus: Germany’s Plan to Reinstate Border Controls
Photo source: Reuters
Germany’s Interior Ministry has announced plans to notify the European Commission of its intention to introduce controls at its borders with Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland, all of which are part of the Schengen area. This move, touted as an effective strategy to combat smuggling and unauthorized entry into the country, could have far-reaching implications for the freedom of movement principle that underpins the Schengen Agreement. The Schengen Area, comprising 26 European countries, was established on the fundamental principle of free movement, with border controls abolished for internal borders and strengthened for external ones. This agreement has been pivotal in promoting cooperation, trade, and tourism within Europe. However, Article 23 of the Schengen Borders Code allows member states to temporarily reintroduce border controls in the event of a serious threat to public policy or internal security. This clause has been invoked before, notably during the migration crisis in 2015 when several countries reintroduced temporary border controls. According to German government officials, the proposed border controls are motivated by the need to enhance national security by fighting against smuggling and unauthorized entry into the country. Over the past few years, Germany has reportedly seen an increase in smuggling activities and unauthorized entries that have strained its law enforcement agencies and border security.
The Interior Ministry believes that reinstating border controls would give authorities more control over who enters the country and would subsequently help deter and detect illegal activities. While this may seem counter to the principles of the Schengen Agreement, the German government argues that this measure is in line with Article 23 of the Schengen Borders Code. The decision to reintroduce border controls, even if temporary, could have significant implications. For one, this move might disrupt the ease of travel, trade, and commuting for work that citizens of the Schengen area currently enjoy. This could potentially have economic implications, particularly for border towns and regions that rely on cross-border trade and tourism. Reactions to Germany’s decision within Europe are likely to be mixed. Countries facing similar smuggling and unauthorized entry challenges may support the move, seeing it as a necessary step in ensuring national security. However, others may see it as a threat to the principle of free movement that underpins the European project. Germany’s proposed reintroduction of border controls raises important questions about the balance between national security and the principle of free movement within the Schengen area. As this situation unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor the European Commission’s response and the potential ripple effects this decision could have across Europe. Ultimately, this move underscores the ongoing challenges in maintaining the Schengen area’s open borders while addressing the different security concerns of individual nations. It serves as a reminder of the complex and delicate nature of the balance that must be struck in ensuring both freedom of movement and national security within the Schengen area.
By Roberto Casseli
