Germany has recently expanded its border controls, a move that has sparked significant debate and controversy. Human rights organizations argue that these measures lead to racially discriminatory profiling, primarily targeting non-white individuals.
Marcus Engler from the German Center for Integration and Migration Research cautions that while the Schengen area's dissolution isn't imminent, this step undermines the EU's fundamental principles and the necessary cooperation in refugee protection. He advocates for a unified EU approach instead of individual national actions.
Since mid-October 2023, Germany has intensified checks at borders with Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, and Switzerland, resulting in 52,000 unauthorized entries and 30,000 rejections. Recently, controls extended to all German borders, including those with France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
These measures are intended to last for six months but have already led to significant disruptions. The Federal Police have reported finding drugs and executing arrest warrants during these checks.
Despite these activities, there have been no extraordinary incidents, and efforts have been made to minimize delays for commuters. Critics fear that such actions threaten the Schengen Agreement, a cornerstone of free travel within the EU.
They urge for collective action at the EU level to address migration and asylum policies effectively. The ongoing border controls reflect the complex and often contentious balance between national security and human rights within the European context.
