It was signed on June 14, 1985, and stands as a historic treaty that changed the European continent, its goal was to abolish the national borders that had long separated countries, which is why we now have the “Schengen Area” that was started by five EU countries, Evolution of Schengen Agreement led to the establishment of one of the largest areas in the world without internal border controls.
History of the Schengen Agreement
The idea of free movement among European countries goes back in time but it wasn’t until after World War II that serious discussions about bringing up such a system gained momentum. The 1980s saw a serious development when France and Germany, pioneers of the idea, started the change In 1984, both countries brought up the topic of unrestricted movement during a Council meeting in Fontainebleau and this was the first step in bringing to light the vision. On June 14, 1985, the Schengen Agreement was signed by five EU nations which were France, Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands in the village of Luxembourg.
The Journey to a Borderless Europe
The signing of the Schengen Agreement was the beginning because, for years, the concept of borderless travel gained attention which led to the gradual growth of the Schengen Area. The Agreement’s principles were further solidified by a Convention in 1990, which covered various aspects, such as the abolition of internal border controls and the establishment of a comprehensive information system.
Expanding the Schengen Area
The Schengen Area kept growing and other nations were recognizing the benefits of shared borders and the ease of travel. Italy, Portugal, Spain, Greece, and more countries joined, contributing to the growth of this initiative. The culmination of efforts led to the actual implementation of the Schengen Area on March 26, 1995, when seven countries simultaneously stopped their internal border checks.
A Growing Success Story For Evolution of Schengen Agreement
The success of the Schengen Agreement continued as more nations accepted its rules and countries like Austria, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden were among the next countries to join the Schengen Area, each contributing to the increasing connection of Europe. The Agreement’s inclusion within the legal framework of the European Union through the Treaty of Amsterdam in 1999 further solidified its importance.
Challenges and Progress For Schengen Agreement
While progress was impressive the challenges were still there. Croatia’s recent entry into the Schengen Area serves as proof of the efforts to have a united Europe. Some EU member states, like Cyprus, faced political issues that affected their full participation. Bulgaria and Romania, while EU members had issues in joining due to concerns about corruption and organized crime.
Territories Beyond the Continent
The Schengen Area goes beyond Europe’s boundaries, bringing territories under the sovereignty of EU member states such as the Azores, Madeira, and the Canary Islands making travel seamless for their residents but integral territories like French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, and others have their policies, even though they are EU members.
Unfinished Journeys For Schengen Agreement
As the Schengen Agreement’s legacy grows, it faces new horizons and challenges. Cyprus, Bulgaria, and Romania, while part of the EU, have yet to fully join the Schengen Area. Their unique situations show the complex interplay between politics, policies, and regional dynamics in shaping the future of borderless travel.
The Vision Endures
The Schengen Agreement stands as a remarkable testament to Europe’s ability to overcome historical divisions. What started as a visionary concept in the 1980s has transformed into a reality that helps millions of lives. The road to a borderless Europe has been opened with challenges and triumphs, proving the continent’s commitment to unity, freedom, and shared prosperity.
