Schengen Agreement Europa

The Schengen Agreement: Facilitating Free Movement in Europe

The Schengen Agreement is an intergovernmental agreement that has been the cornerstone of the European Union’s policy on free movement since its inception. The agreement was signed on June 14, 1985, in the town of Schengen, Luxembourg, by five EU member states, namely Belgium, Germany, France, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands.

The main objective of the Schengen Agreement was to abolish internal border controls between EU member states and create a common area without internal borders, known as the Schengen Area. Today, the Schengen Area includes 26 countries, consisting of 22 EU member states, four non-EU member states, and three microstates. The countries are Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Free Movement of People

The Schengen Agreement has facilitated the free movement of people within the Schengen Area. Citizens of the participating states can travel without passport controls and without border checks. The agreement has thus eliminated the need for border controls between the participating states, while enhancing the mobility of citizens within the region.

Free Movement of Goods

The Schengen Agreement has also resulted in the creation of a single market, which allows the free movement of goods within the Schengen Area. This has led to an increase in the level of intra-regional trade, as goods can now be transported freely and without hindrance.

Advantages of the Schengen Agreement

The Schengen Agreement has brought many advantages to the EU and the people living within the Schengen Area. It has facilitated the free movement of people and goods, which has led to an increase in trade and commerce within the region. The agreement has also increased cultural and social exchange, encouraging interaction and dialogue among citizens of different nationalities.

Challenges and Criticisms

The Schengen Agreement has faced several challenges and criticisms, especially with the recent refugee crisis and the rise of terrorism in Europe. Some argue that the agreement has led to a lack of control over the movement of people, allowing terrorists and criminals to move freely across borders. Others believe that the agreement has led to the rise of nationalism and a lack of solidarity among EU member states.

Conclusion

Despite the challenges and criticisms, the Schengen Agreement remains a critical component of the European Union’s policy on free movement. The agreement has facilitated the free movement of people and goods, leading to an increase in trade and commerce, as well as cultural and social exchange. While there are challenges to the agreement, it remains a vital aspect of integration and cooperation among EU member states.