Management of the European Union's External Borders

The Schengen Area enables the implementation of the principle of free movement of people and goods in Europe. The Schengen Area can thus be described as a form of enhanced cooperation due to the elimination of internal border controls. This removal makes the principle of free movement effective. In return, compensatory measures are in place to strengthen the security of external borders. However, for several years now, the Schengen Area has faced two challenges linked to the migration crisis and the terrorist threat. Indeed, Europe is experiencing an unprecedented influx of migrants coupled with terrorist attacks. These events have led some member states to reinstate internal border controls, in the absence of a timely response from the European Union. To restore the confidence of the Schengen Area member states, the European Union has implemented the necessary reforms to improve border management and ensure the sustainability of the Schengen Area. As a result, the European Union is on track to catch up in terms of protecting its external borders.