Germany Implements Random Border Checks with Western European Nations

Background

Germany has begun random checks at its borders with five Western European nations, expanding a system of controls already in place at its four other borders.

The police controls began at the borders with France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Denmark on Monday morning and are due to continue for six months.

Context

The coalition government is under increasing pressure over migration following recent deadly knife attacks in which the suspects were asylum seekers.

In August, the Islamic State group claimed responsibility for a knife attack in the western city of Solingen in which three people were killed.

Germany has also seen a rise in support for the opposition far-right and conservatives pushing immigration and security concerns higher on the political agenda.

Expert Analysis

However, experts have questioned the long-term effectiveness of the measure.

“Research has shown usually with these border checks, it’s usually not the big fish, it’s the smaller fish that will get caught,” says migration expert Svenja Niederfranke.

“And not every single smuggler will get caught either, because obviously they know where the border checks are and they will find different ways to do it.”

Implications

The border controls are testing European unity because they are seen by some as a step away from the spirit of the EU’s free travel arrangement known as Schengen.

Conclusion

The implementation of random border checks by Germany is a significant development in the country’s migration policy. While the government aims to improve security and reduce the number of asylum seekers, experts have raised concerns about the effectiveness of this measure and its potential impact on European unity.

FAQs

Q: What countries are affected by the border checks?

A: The border checks are in place at Germany’s borders with France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Denmark.

Q: How long will the border checks last?

A: The border checks are due to continue for six months.

Q: What is the purpose of the border checks?

A: The purpose of the border checks is to improve security and reduce the number of asylum seekers entering Germany.