Romania Bulgaria Join Schengen Free Travel Area Jan 1 2024 12 12
ReutersDec 12
EU Agrees Full Schengen Accession for Romania, Bulgaria
Above: Trucks queue to enter to the Giurgiu-Ruse border point between Romania and Bulgaria, near Giurgiu, Romania on December 6, 2022. Image copyright: DANIEL MIHAILESCU/AFP/Contributor via Getty Images
The Facts
The European Council has approved Romania and Bulgaria's full membership in the Schengen Area, with land border controls set to be lifted starting Jan. 1, marking the end of a process that began in 2011.
The decision came after Austria lifted its veto in December 2023 after it had demanded progress in stopping illegal migration through its border with Hungary.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
The accession of Bulgaria and Romania to the Schengen Area is a pivotal step for the EU. The decision will boost trade, tourism, and economic growth while symbolizing European unity and solidarity. Having met all Schengen criteria, their inclusion strengthens the EU’s cohesion and competitiveness, reinforcing its commitment to free movement. This long-overdue decision marks a transformative moment for Europe.
Establishment-critical narrative
Further entry into the Schengen area without dealing with corruption, weak rule-of-law, and inadequate border control undermines the principle of secure, borderless travel. With rising migration challenges, including Kosovo's visa-free status, expanding Schengen prematurely could worsen security and migration issues, undermining the system's credibility. Effective border management and rule of law should be prerequisites for joining the Schengen Area.