Introduction
The European Union Member States of Romania and Bulgaria are joining the open-border agreement based on the 1990 Schengen Treaty. The enlargement marks the progress of these two states in the sectors of air borders, visas, police cooperation, and personal data protection and the further unification of the EU.
What is the Schengen Zone?
The Schengen Zone represents one of the European Union’s crowning achievements, enabling passport-free movement across member states. Established in 1985, it has grown from a five-country agreement to a vast area allowing almost 420 million people to travel, work, and live freely across 27 countries. Schengen membership is a symbol of unity, cooperation, and freedom, embodying Europe’s commitment to open borders and the seamless integration of its citizens.
Schengen Members
The Schengen area consists of the newly joining Romania and Bulgaria, Poland, Netherlands, Greece, France, Lithuania, Slovenia, Finland, Switzerland, Norway, Croatia, Monaco, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Malta, Sweden, Iceland, Spain, Portugal, Liechtenstein, Belgium, Latvia, Slovakia, Estonia, Czech Republic, Austria, Luxembourg, Denmark, Cyprus, and the micro-states of Vatican, San Marino and Andorra being de facto members, as well as Antigua and Barbuda, and São Tomé and Príncipe.
Romania and Bulgaria’s Historical Joining
The recent unanimous decision by the Council to welcome Romania and Bulgaria into the Schengen Zone marks a historic moment for both nations and the EU at large. Starting on 31 March 2024, air and sea border controls will be lifted, facilitating easier travel, boosting trade, and promoting tourism.
However, border checks will continue to apply for any land-based travel between either Bulgaria or Romania and other Schengen Area countries. The European Council will continue talks in 2024 to lift such land border checks.
This inclusion is the result of years of diligent preparation by Romania and Bulgaria, demonstrating their commitment to meeting Schengen’s strict requirements through significant improvements in border management and cooperation with neighboring countries.
Envisioning the Future of European Integration
The accession of Romania and Bulgaria to the Schengen Zone not only expands the area’s geographical footprint but also strengthens the fabric of the EU. It signals a renewed commitment to the principle of free movement, potentially setting a precedent for future expansions.
As the Schengen Zone grows, it enhances the EU’s internal cohesion and global standing, paving the way for a more integrated, secure, and prosperous Europe. This expansion could inspire further enlargements, reinforcing the vision of a united Europe without internal borders, where every member state shares in the benefits of closer integration and cooperation.
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