The Schengen Agreement is a landmark agreement that facilitates free movement of people across European borders. It is named after the town of Schengen in Luxembourg where the agreement was signed in 1985.
The Schengen Agreement created a zone without internal borders, where people can travel freely without having to show their passports or go through border controls. The agreement covers 26 European countries, including most countries in the European Union (EU) and some non-EU countries such as Iceland, Norway and Switzerland.
The Schengen Agreement has been a key contributor to the success of the EU, and has had a profound impact on the daily lives of millions of people who travel across Europe. It has made travel easier, faster, and more convenient for tourists, students, workers, and business people, and has enhanced economic and cultural exchanges among European countries.
The Schengen Agreement is based on the principles of trust, cooperation, and solidarity among participating countries. It requires countries to share information on border control, security, and migration, and to work together to prevent and combat cross-border crime and terrorism.
The Schengen Agreement does not allow free movement of goods, services, and capital, as these are still subject to national regulations and taxes. It also does not impose a common immigration policy, as each country retains its sovereignty to decide who can enter and stay in its territory.
In recent years, the Schengen Agreement has faced challenges due to the refugee and migrant crisis, the rise of terrorism, and the resurgence of nationalism and populism. Some countries have introduced temporary border controls in response to these challenges, which have raised concerns about the future of the Schengen zone.
Overall, the Schengen Agreement is a landmark achievement in European integration, which has brought significant benefits and challenges to the participating countries. Its future depends on the ability of the EU and its member states to address the current challenges and to renew their commitment to the principles of trust, cooperation, and solidarity.