The Schengen Agreement and Terrorism: A Complex Relationship
The Schengen Agreement, signed in 1985, is a treaty that abolished internal borders and established a common visa policy among European countries. Today, it covers 26 European countries, including most EU member states.
The agreement has allowed for the free movement of people and goods across the continent, but its implications for security have been the subject of debate in recent years, especially in the wake of terrorist attacks in France, Belgium, and Germany.
Critics argue that the open borders created by the agreement make it easier for terrorists to move between countries undetected and plan attacks. However, defenders of the Schengen Agreement point out that these attacks were not carried out by refugees or migrants moving freely across borders but by individuals who were already known to authorities.
In fact, some experts argue that the Schengen Agreement has actually made it easier to track terrorists and prevent attacks. Because of the agreement, law enforcement agencies in different countries have developed better communication and collaboration networks, enabling them to share information and coordinate responses to threats more effectively.
However, there are still challenges to be addressed. One of the main concerns is the lack of a common database for all countries to share information on suspected terrorists and criminals. This issue was highlighted in 2015 when it was discovered that one of the Paris attackers had traveled freely across Europe, despite being known to French authorities.
Another concern is the increased pressure on border controls in the wake of terrorist attacks. Some member states have reintroduced border checks to temporarily restrict the movement of people and goods, which goes against the spirit of the Schengen Agreement. This has led to criticism that the agreement has become a victim of its own success and that its future is in doubt.
Despite these challenges, most experts agree that the Schengen Agreement remains a vital tool for European integration and that any potential security risks can be managed through improved information sharing, better cooperation, and targeted measures.
Overall, the relationship between the Schengen Agreement and terrorism is complex. While the free movement of people and goods across borders can make it easier for terrorists to operate, it can also facilitate cooperation between law enforcement agencies and prevent attacks. The challenge for policymakers is to strike the right balance that preserves the benefits of the agreement while also addressing legitimate security concerns.
