The Schengen Area, a pillar of European architecture enabling the free movement of people and goods, is in jeopardy as member states tighten border controls. Germany’s recent decision to implement controls on its nine borders has caused concern among experts and angered neighboring countries. The move, attributed to political motives rather than strategy, has led to criticism from EU law experts like Alberto Alemanno. This decision threatens the core principle of Schengen and could have far-reaching consequences for the EU as a whole, impacting neighboring states and cross-border workers.
The Schengen Area, established in 1995, comprises 29 states, but recent crises, such as the refugee influx in 2015 and the Covid-19 pandemic, have strained its foundations. Various countries have cited security concerns and migratory pressures to justify border controls, leading to a patchwork of restrictions across Europe. The European Commission has recommended alternative measures to prevent the closure of internal borders and protect the free movement of goods and people, a key benefit of EU membership.
As Schengen faces its biggest challenge yet, the future of European integration hangs in the balance. Will the EU be able to navigate these turbulent waters and preserve the principles that have underpinned its success? Only time will tell.
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