German Greens Call for End of EU Border Checks

In an open letter addressed to EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, German Green politicians have called for the cessation of ongoing border checks at several crossings, arguing that these measures violate the Schengen agreement. The German government has implemented these checks as exceptions to the border-free travel area to address irregular migration, a move that has sparked concerns about the integrity of the Schengen zone. The letter, signed by prominent Green politicians including MEPs Anna Cavazzini and Erik Marquardt, criticizes the stationary border controls introduced by Interior Minister Nancy Faeser at borders with Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, and Switzerland. The Greens assert that these controls, initially justified by a rise in illegal crossings, should be lifted following the conclusion of two major sporting events, as they believe the measures are no longer warranted. The letter highlights findings from a recent expert report questioning the effectiveness of the border checks, suggesting that claims of success are often unsubstantiated. The Greens argue that the checks have led to issues such as evasion and double counting, raising doubts about their compliance with legal requirements that stipulate such measures should be temporary and a last resort. In their appeal, the Greens urged the EU Commission to fulfill its role as the "Guardian of the Treaties" by ensuring adherence to the law. They emphasized that the ongoing checks impose significant burdens on individuals and businesses in border regions, as well as affecting trade and law enforcement. Despite previous indications from the Commission regarding a review of these controls, no decisive action has been taken thus far.