European Politics Questions Medium
The Schengen Agreement is an agreement signed in 1985 by several European countries to establish a borderless area, known as the Schengen Area, where the free movement of people is allowed. It aims to facilitate travel and trade between member states by eliminating internal border controls.
Under the Schengen Agreement, member states have abolished passport control at their mutual borders and implemented common rules for external border controls. This means that once a person enters the Schengen Area through one member state, they can travel freely within the area without further passport checks. The agreement also includes provisions for police cooperation and information sharing among member states.
The Schengen Agreement has had a significant impact on European politics. Firstly, it has promoted the idea of a unified Europe, as it symbolizes the removal of internal borders and the creation of a common space for citizens. It has fostered a sense of European identity and has contributed to the development of a European citizenship.
Secondly, the agreement has facilitated the free movement of people, goods, and services within the Schengen Area. This has had positive economic effects, as it has boosted trade and tourism among member states. It has also allowed for the mobility of workers, enabling individuals to seek employment opportunities in other member states without facing significant barriers.
However, the Schengen Agreement has also posed challenges for European politics. The elimination of internal border controls has raised concerns about security and the potential for cross-border crime, terrorism, and illegal immigration. Member states have had to enhance their external border controls to ensure the security of the Schengen Area, leading to debates on the balance between security and freedom of movement.
Furthermore, the migration crisis in recent years has put pressure on the Schengen Agreement. The influx of refugees and migrants has strained the external borders of some member states, leading to temporary reintroduction of border controls within the Schengen Area. This has sparked debates on the effectiveness and sustainability of the agreement, as well as the need for a common European approach to migration and asylum.
In conclusion, the Schengen Agreement is a significant development in European politics, promoting the free movement of people and goods within the Schengen Area. It has contributed to the idea of a unified Europe and has had positive economic effects. However, it has also raised security concerns and faced challenges in the face of the migration crisis. Overall, the Schengen Agreement has shaped European politics by balancing the principles of freedom of movement and security.