Schengen Area

Definition

The Schengen Area is a group of European countries that have abolished passport and other types of border control at their mutual borders, allowing for free movement of people within the area. This agreement fosters economic integration by facilitating trade and travel, while also highlighting regional disparities in border security and immigration policies among member and non-member states.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Schengen Area includes 26 European countries, with 22 being EU members and 4 non-EU members: Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.
2. Countries within the Schengen Area share a common visa policy, making it easier for travelers to move between member states without needing multiple visas.
3. Although border controls are generally absent, member states can temporarily reinstate them in response to security concerns or significant events, like the migrant crisis.
4. The establishment of the Schengen Agreement in 1985 aimed to enhance cooperation among European nations, promoting not only travel but also economic growth across the region.
5. Non-EU countries can join the Schengen Area if they meet specific criteria related to border security, visa policies, and data-sharing agreements.

Review Questions

• How does the Schengen Area facilitate economic integration among its member countries?
  • The Schengen Area promotes economic integration by allowing unrestricted movement of people across borders, which facilitates trade and tourism. This open-border policy reduces delays caused by customs checks and allows businesses to operate more efficiently across multiple countries. As workers can move freely for employment opportunities, this also contributes to a more flexible labor market within the region.
• Evaluate the impact of differing border control measures between Schengen Area members and non-members on regional security and migration patterns.
  • Differing border control measures between Schengen Area members and non-members can create significant disparities in regional security and migration patterns. While Schengen members benefit from shared security protocols, non-member countries may face challenges with increased immigration pressure at their borders. This discrepancy can lead to tension in managing migrant flows, as non-members might struggle with higher volumes of undocumented migrants trying to enter the Schengen Area.
• Analyze the challenges faced by the Schengen Area in maintaining its principles amid rising nationalism and security concerns in Europe.
  • The Schengen Area faces challenges in upholding its principles due to increasing nationalism and heightened security concerns across Europe. As member states grapple with issues such as terrorism, illegal immigration, and public sentiment favoring stronger border controls, some governments have reinstated temporary border checks. This shift raises questions about the future of open borders in Europe, as countries must balance their commitments to free movement with national security interests and public safety concerns.

Related terms

European Union (EU): A political and economic union of 27 European countries that are committed to regional integration and shared governance.

Border Control: The measures and policies implemented by a country to regulate and monitor the entry and exit of people across its borders.

Visa Policy: The regulations that determine who can enter a country, under what conditions, and for how long, often varying between Schengen Area members.