LUXEMBOURG (ANP) – Criticism of internal border controls is notably resurfacing as the Schengen Agreement marks its 40th anniversary, which facilitates the free movement of people and mandates that passport checks occur solely at Europe’s external borders.
Luxembourg’s minister has pointed out that over 240,000 daily commuters to Luxembourg frequently endure lengthy traffic jams due to these internal controls. Meanwhile, Luxembourgers are increasingly opting to skip shopping trips to the German city of Trier, as reported by Mayor Gloden.
Gloden mentioned that internal border controls result in negative consequences for all involved. “I hope the European Commission, as the enforcer of the treaties, takes a stand,” he stated.
Thus far, the Commission has refrained from taking action. European Commissioner Magnus Brunner (Migration) noted that the treaty permits member states to implement temporary border controls, emphasizing their intended temporary nature.
“The aim must be to eliminate border controls within the Schengen area. To achieve this, we need to enhance security at the external borders and organize the European framework more effectively,” Brunner explained.
He referenced the asylum and migration pact, which will establish stricter guidelines for the admission, distribution, and reception of asylum seekers, set to take effect next year.
(June 13, 2025)
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