Schengen Controls: Merz Praises Open Internal Borders but Urges Tight External Borders
Internal borders within Merz should be open, advocates Merz, while strengthening external borders is strongly suggested.
Loosen the reins on Europe's internal borders, but lock down the external ones – that's the message from the German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on the 40th anniversary of the Schengen Agreement. The agreement guarantees travel without border checks and controls in 29 European countries, but it's increasingly under threat.
The Schengen Agreement is the backbone of a free Europe, Merz asserted on X. "Keep it that way: strong internal markets, secure external borders, new migration rules, and effective cooperation." The CDU leader's words echoed the sentiments of many European politicians, who are grappling with the challenges that come with maintaining a borderless travel zone.
A Tightrope Walk
Schengen represents a remarkable achievement for modern Europe, but it's not without complications. In recent years, several member states have reintroduced temporary border controls to respond to evolving threats like security concerns, uncontrolled migration, and public health emergencies. Germany, for instance, has enforced controls at its borders with Austria since 2015 and with Switzerland, the Czech Republic, and Poland since 2023.
State leaders recognize the need for a balance between national sovereignty and European unity. Alexander Schweitzer, the Minster-President of Rhineland-Palatinate, echoed these sentiments at the anniversary ceremony in Schengen. He commended the benefits of the Schengen Agreement but cautioned against permanent border controls, emphasizing that they were never intended for long-term use.
European Realities
Schweitzer's words rang true as German federal police checked car drivers on the Moselle Bridge in Schengen during the anniversary celebrations. "This is the European reality we are currently in," he noted, acknowledging the inherent contradiction between the Schengen vision and the need for border controls.
New Electronic Entry System
Federation Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt is tasked with justifying the necessity of these measures, which are enshrined in the coalition agreement. He has spoken of "smart" border controls, though specifics are still unclear. Some see this as a promising development, while others remain skeptical about the effectiveness and necessity of these measures.
A Call for a Schengen Without Borders
Anke Rehlinger, Minster-President of Saarland, called for a return to Schengen as envisioned in the agreement – a borderless Europe. "We must come up with something smarter than ensuring border guards keep an eye on non-existent barriers," she urged.
Alongside Rehlinger, Luxembourg's Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel urged Europe to defend borderless travel in the Schengen area. "Let's work together to protect our hard-won freedom, not lose it," he said.
In recent years, the EU has faced significant challenges in managing its external borders and has introduced reforms to improve border management and enhance resilience during crises. The European Union plans to introduce a new electronic entry system to streamline internal border checks and ensure more efficient management of the Schengen Area.
As Europe grapples with these issues, the future of the Schengen Agreement remains a topic of intense debate and scrutiny. Balancing security, open borders, and unified cooperation will be the key to preserving the benefits of this unique European project.
Policy considerations are crucial in maintaining the Schengen Agreement, with emphasis on strengthening internal markets, securing external borders, and updating migration rules. Each country must find a balance between national sovereignty and European unity as they navigate these challenges, demonstrating the political nature of the Schengen Agreement within the context of general news and policy-and-legislation.
