Fr, Okt 20th 2023
Die Wiedereinführung von Grenzkontrollen zwischen den Ländern des Schengen-Raums hat Besorgnis ausgelöst, und viele fragen sich, ob der Raum noch zu retten ist.
German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser defended the reintroduction of border controls against Czech Republic, Poland and Switzerland, citing the high number of refugees and migrants. Swiss Federal Councillor Elisabeth Baume-Schneider expressed understanding for Faeser’s measures, particularly in light of a tragic accident in Bavaria where a suspected smuggling vehicle crashed, killing seven people, including a baby.
Faeser and Baume-Schneider met in Luxembourg to discuss the issue, with Faeser stressing that the measures are only “partially and location-specific” and are primarily aimed at combating smuggling. The Swiss government has decided not to introduce strict controls at its external borders, instead opting to strengthen the border guard corps in Ticino and carry out increased spot checks.
Both Faeser and Baume-Schneider expressed hope that the EU’s joint asylum and migration package, which is still going through the EU legislative process, will improve the situation in the Schengen area. Faeser stated that once the measures are implemented, open borders can be restored. Baume-Schneider also expressed optimism, noting that she had sensed a willingness among EU states to preserve the Schengen area.
©Keystone/SDA