The EU Schengen Agreement – What You Need to Know
The EU Schengen Agreement is a treaty signed in 1985 that abolished border controls between certain European countries. The treaty takes its name from the small town of Schengen in Luxembourg, where it was signed by five of the then ten members of the European Economic Community.
Today, the Schengen Area consists of 26 European countries, including 22 EU member states and four non-EU countries (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland). This area is a zone without internal borders, where people can travel freely without being subjected to passport checks at border crossings.
The Schengen Agreement is not just about travel, however. It also includes provisions for police cooperation, the harmonization of visa policies, and the establishment of a common information system for law enforcement agencies. The treaty also covers the sharing of information on wanted or missing persons, stolen vehicles, or other objects, as well as the exchange of information on foreign nationals who have been refused entry or have overstayed their visas.
One of the key benefits of the Schengen Area is the freedom of movement it provides for citizens of member states. People can travel, live, and work in any of the participating countries without the need for visas or residency permits. This has been particularly advantageous for businesses, as it has removed many of the bureaucratic hurdles associated with cross-border trade.
However, the Schengen Agreement has also faced challenges over the years. The ongoing refugee crisis in Europe has led to the temporary reintroduction of border controls in some countries, as governments seek to manage the influx of migrants and refugees. The terrorist attacks in Paris in November 2015 also prompted some member states to tighten up their border controls, leading to fears that the Schengen Area could eventually collapse.
Despite these challenges, the Schengen Agreement remains a key pillar of European integration. It has helped to facilitate greater cooperation and understanding between member states, and has brought significant economic benefits to the region. As such, it is likely to remain a cornerstone of EU policy for years to come.
In conclusion, the EU Schengen Agreement is a landmark treaty that has transformed the way Europeans travel and do business. While it has faced challenges in recent years, the benefits it provides are clear, and it remains a critical component of European integration.