Germany to Implement Border Controls at All Land Borders Starting September 16

German authorities have announced plans to introduce temporary internal border controls at all land borders, set to begin on September 16.

According to Minister of Interior Nancy Faeser, the controls will initially be in place for six months, aiming to enhance national security and address the issue of irregular migration.

By reintroducing these border checks, Germany intends to curb the entry of foreigners without valid visas and mitigate irregular migration overall. Minister Faeser highlighted the current security concerns, particularly the rise in threats from Islamist terror groups, as a driving factor behind the move.

“We are doing everything we can to protect the people in our country against this,” Faeser said. “We are strengthening our internal security through concrete action, and we are continuing our tough stance against irregular migration.”

While the border controls have yet to come into effect, Germany has already notified the European Commission of its decision. Once implemented, the checks will apply to Germany's land borders with Austria, Belgium, Czechia, France, Denmark, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, and Switzerland, covering over 3,700 kilometers.

Germany has been maintaining border controls with Austria, Czechia, Poland, and Switzerland for some time. Initially introduced as a short-term measure, the controls were extended in response to increased irregular migration and security threats. These controls were originally scheduled to remain in place until December 15, with the exception of the Austrian border. However, with the introduction of the new measures, the controls will now be in effect until mid-March.

Despite Germany's justification for the controls, some neighboring countries have voiced concerns. Austrian Minister of Interior Gerhard Karner made it clear that Austria would not accept any migrants turned away by Germany, stating, “There’s no room for manoeuvre there.” Similarly, Czech Ministry of Interior spokesperson Hana Malá warned that extended German border controls could trigger a “domino effect” across the Schengen Area, leading to increased checks and delays at borders.

By fLEXI tEAM