Germany Extends Internal Border Controls: Minister Faeser Highlights Efforts to Combat Irregular Migration

The decision by the German authorities to extend internal border controls with Poland, Czechia, and Switzerland for an additional three months reflects the persistent challenges posed by irregular migration and smuggling activities. Federal Minister of Interior Nancy Faeser's announcement underscores the government's proactive approach to maintaining border security and safeguarding national interests.

Minister Faeser stated, "We are continuing the controls at our borders with Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland for three more months until mid-June 2024. The Federal Police can, therefore, continue to use the entire package of stationary and mobile border police measures flexibly." Faeser's statement regarding the continuation of border controls until mid-June 2024 underscores the ongoing need for vigilance in monitoring border crossings and preventing illicit activities.

Furthermore, Faeser emphasized, "We continue to pay great attention to keeping the impact on commuters and everyday life in the border regions as low as possible." This assurance reflects the government's commitment to balancing security concerns with facilitating legitimate cross-border movement and economic activities.

Faeser also highlighted the effectiveness of these controls, noting, "The measures have proven to be effective so far as the Federal Police has arrested about 560 people smugglers at the land border with the three other EU countries since October." This underscores the critical role of border surveillance in combating organized crime and protecting national sovereignty.

Since the implementation of internal border checks in October 2023, authorities have been vigilant in detecting and preventing unauthorized entries into Germany. Faeser further emphasized, "Data show that since October 16, 2023, when the internal border checks with Poland, Czechia, Switzerland, and Austria were initially introduced, the police have detected almost 23,000 unauthorized entries." This indicates progress in border control efforts and the disruption of illicit migration routes.

In addition to the extension with Poland, Czechia, and Switzerland, the continued enforcement of internal border controls with Austria underscores the comprehensive approach adopted by the German government to address migration challenges across multiple fronts.

Overall, the extension of internal border controls reflects Germany's commitment to upholding border security, safeguarding national interests, and promoting regional stability through effective border management measures.

By fLEXI tEAM