Romania and Bulgaria set to join Schengen area in January 2025

In a significant meeting held in Budapest, key interior ministers from Bulgaria, Romania, Austria, and Hungary prepared a joint declaration concerning the removal of checks on the land borders of Bulgaria and Romania, marking an important step towards greater integration within the European Union's Schengen Area. This meeting followed a series of negotiations that aimed to fortify the decision-making process for both Romania and Bulgaria's full accession to the Schengen Area. The proposal to remove land border checks is expected to be voted on by the EU Justice and Home Affairs Council on December 12, which highlights the urgency and significance of this political maneuvering. This declaration underlines a cooperative effort among the four countries to combat illegal migration, showcasing their commitment to collective border security. A joint contingent of 100 border police officers will be deployed to monitor these borders for at least six months, indicating a collaborative vigilance as the two nations prepare for their anticipated accession. The Hungarian Interior Minister, Sándor Pintér, voiced optimism for a positive outcome while indicating that the full accession of both nations is projected for January 2025. This planning aligns with broader EU policy that seeks to enhance security and streamline border controls across member states. The reactions from both the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and representatives of major political groups within the European Parliament illustrate a strong unification on this matter. They not only welcome the progress made regarding the Schengen accession but emphasize the importance of free movement as a fundamental EU principle. The European People’s Party (EPP) and the Socialists and Democrats (S&D) conveyed their approval, prompting optimism for the upcoming EU Council decision expected next month. The historical context of this development cannot be overlooked, as both Romania and Bulgaria have been navigating complex political landscapes to achieve Schengen membership since their EU accession in 2007. Over the years, concerns regarding border management and the rule of law have contributed to delays in achieving this goal. However, the current discussions and preparations signal a shift towards recognizing both countries’ readiness to fully integrate into the Schengen framework, thereby enhancing regional stability and cooperation within the European Union.