The Schengen Agreement Comes into Effect: March 25, 1995

On March 25, 1995, the Schengen Agreement officially came into effect, marking a significant milestone in European integration. This agreement facilitated the removal of internal border controls among participating European countries, allowing for passport-free travel across much of the continent. This development was a crucial step towards greater European unity and cooperation.

Background

The Schengen Agreement was initially signed on June 14, 1985, by five of the ten member states of the European Economic Community (EEC) at the time: Belgium, France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and West Germany. The agreement was named after the village of Schengen in Luxembourg, where the signing took place. The primary aim was to abolish border checks at the signatories’ common borders, thereby promoting free movement of people, goods, services, and capital.

Key Provisions

• Abolition of Internal Borders: The agreement eliminated border controls between participating countries, allowing for seamless travel across borders without the need for passports or visas.
• Common Visa Policy: It established a common visa policy for short stays, allowing travelers to move freely within the Schengen Area with a single visa.
• Cooperation on Security: To compensate for the lack of internal border checks, the agreement included measures for enhanced police cooperation and information sharing among member states to maintain security.

Implementation

The Schengen Agreement came into effect on March 25, 1995, initially including seven countries: Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain. Over time, the Schengen Area expanded to include most European Union (EU) countries and some non-EU countries, such as Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

Significance and Impact

• Facilitated Travel and Trade: The agreement significantly eased travel and trade across Europe, boosting tourism and economic activities by reducing the time and costs associated with border checks.
• Symbol of European Integration: The Schengen Agreement became a symbol of European integration, reflecting the continent’s commitment to unity and cooperation.
• Challenges and Criticisms: Despite its benefits, the Schengen Agreement also faced challenges, particularly concerning security and immigration. The 2015 European migrant crisis and subsequent security concerns led to temporary reintroductions of border controls by some member states.

Conclusion

The implementation of the Schengen Agreement on March 25, 1995, was a landmark event in European history, promoting the free movement of people and goods across much of the continent. It remains a cornerstone of European integration, despite facing challenges and adaptations over the years. The Schengen Area continues to be a testament to the collaborative spirit of European nations striving for unity and shared prosperity.