Coronavirus: Europe’s ‘Open Borders’ System Faces Collapse
The European system of open internal borders — a cornerstone of European integration — is on the brink of collapse.
Coronavirus: Europe’s ‘Open Borders’ System Faces Collapse
Soeren Kern | Gatestone Institute | March 17, 2020
As a growing number of countries close their borders to fight the coronavirus pandemic, the European system of open internal borders — a cornerstone of European integration — is on the brink of collapse.
The so-called Schengen Area, which comprises 26 European countries, entered into effect in 1995 and abolishes the need for passports and other types of control at mutual borders. It is a key practical and symbolic achievement of European integration and is now falling apart.
