France Rules Out Fixed Border Controls With Luxembourg, Interior Minister Assures

France has confirmed that it has no plans to introduce fixed internal border controls with Luxembourg, according to Minister of the Interior Bruni Retailleau.

This assurance was given during a meeting in Paris with Luxembourg’s Minister for Home Affairs, Léon Gloden.

Addressing concerns about potential border restrictions, Minister Retailleau clarified that the newly tightened measures do not target Luxembourg specifically. Instead, he emphasized that France’s aim is not to cause delays for cross-border traffic within the Schengen Area.

He further explained that rather than implementing permanent border checks, France currently conducts targeted checks on national roads, a method that allows authorities to monitor security without disrupting daily travel.

Luxembourg’s Minister Gloden also spoke on the issue, acknowledging that while France has extended its border controls, some regulatory adjustments have been made. In response to the situation, Minister Gloden expressed support for increased mixed patrols between France and Luxembourg. "The cooperation between the two countries has helped in preventing irregular entries and other illegal activities," he stated. Given its effectiveness, both governments have agreed to expand this collaboration in the future.

France’s Border Control Measures Reinstated in November 2024

On November 1, 2024, France reintroduced internal border controls with all its neighboring Schengen countries, including Belgium, Spain, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Germany, and Italy. The measure was part of an effort to combat irregular migration and counter potential terrorist threats.

French authorities have confirmed that these border controls will remain in place until April 30, 2025. However, they have also indicated that if the policy proves effective and necessary, it may be extended beyond April.

While the reinstated border checks have been met with criticism, former Prime Minister Michel Barnier defended the decision in November 2024, stating: "This model has proven to be effective." He further emphasized that "the citizens of the country expect an effective policy to control immigration."

Shortly after the controls were reinstated, Luxembourg lawmakers called for their immediate removal, arguing that such restrictions within the Schengen Area should only be implemented as a last resort. The lawmakers stressed that border controls should not be extended indefinitely unless strict criteria are met.

In addition, Luxembourg officials voiced concerns over Germany’s border measures, stating that irregular migration should not be used as an excuse to impose additional checks within the free-movement area. 

By fLEXI tEAM