Schengen Agreement

Definition

The Schengen Agreement is a treaty that led to the creation of Europe’s Schengen Area, where internal border checks between participating countries have been abolished, allowing for the free movement of people. It plays a crucial role in shaping migration policies, security measures, and the overall integration process of European nations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Schengen Agreement was signed in 1985 and initially included five countries: Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands.
2. The agreement allows citizens of participating countries to travel freely without passport checks at borders, enhancing tourism and trade.
3. Schengen countries maintain external border controls to manage immigration from non-member states, ensuring security while allowing for free movement internally.
4. Not all EU member states are part of the Schengen Area; notable exceptions include Ireland and the United Kingdom, which opted to maintain their own border controls.
5. The Schengen Area has faced challenges such as increased migration pressures and security concerns following events like the 2015 refugee crisis and terrorism incidents.

Review Questions

• How did the Schengen Agreement influence discussions during the negotiations of the Maastricht Treaty?
  • The Schengen Agreement significantly influenced discussions during the Maastricht Treaty negotiations by emphasizing the need for cooperation on border control and immigration policies among member states. As Europe sought greater integration through economic and political means, the ability to move freely without internal borders became a key element of fostering unity. The inclusion of provisions related to free movement in the Maastricht Treaty reflected a broader commitment to deepening European integration while recognizing the importance of security measures at external borders.
• What role does the Schengen Agreement play in shaping policies for new member states joining the European Union?
  • The Schengen Agreement plays a crucial role in shaping policies for new EU member states as they must meet specific criteria to join the Schengen Area. These criteria include effective border management, visa policies, and police cooperation among member states. For new entrants, this means that their ability to participate fully in EU benefits is contingent on their compliance with Schengen rules, which can pose challenges as they work to strengthen their border control systems and ensure they meet EU standards.
• Evaluate how the challenges faced by the Schengen Area impact broader European integration efforts.
  • The challenges faced by the Schengen Area, including increased migration pressures and security threats, significantly impact broader European integration efforts by testing member states' commitment to collective policies. Issues such as border control reinstatement or differing national responses to migration crises can lead to tensions between countries, undermining trust and collaboration. As nations grapple with balancing national security with commitments to free movement, these challenges have prompted discussions about reforming existing agreements and could shape future policies aimed at enhancing both integration and security across Europe.

Related terms

Maastricht Treaty:

A foundational treaty that established the European Union and set the framework for economic and political integration among member states.

European Union (EU): A political and economic union of member states that are located primarily in Europe, aimed at fostering economic cooperation and political stability.

Border Control: The measures implemented by countries to regulate the movement of people and goods across their borders, which can include checks, inspections, and enforcement of immigration laws.