Key Takeaways
Beginning today, France will implement border controls with its neighboring countries. This decision aims to address issues related to irregular migration and potential terrorist threats. French Prime Minister Michel Barnier has stated that this measure has demonstrated its effectiveness in the past.
As of today, November 1, border controls at France’s borders with Belgium, Spain, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Germany, and Italy are officially in effect.
France has opted to reintroduce border controls with its six neighboring Schengen countries, citing concerns over irregular migration and terrorist threats. These controls are set to remain in place until at least April 30, according to Schengen.News reports.
For nearly a decade, France has maintained such measures, with the most recent extension originally scheduled to conclude on October 31, 2024. However, French authorities have informed the European Commission that they will continue to uphold these border controls.
Significant threats to public policy, public order, and internal security arise from elevated levels of terrorist activity, the increasing presence of criminal networks that facilitate irregular migration and smuggling, as well as migration patterns that could allow radicalized individuals to infiltrate.
— France’s Notification to the Commission Regarding the Reintroduction of Border Controls.
A Model That Has Proven to Be Effective
In announcing the reintroduction of border checks, French Prime Minister Michel Barnier stated that this approach has demonstrated its effectiveness.
The French public anticipates a robust immigration control policy. The Government has recently informed the European Commission about the extension of internal border controls that have been in effect since 2015. At the Italian border, the border force has undergone testing. This successful model will now be applied across all of France’s land borders.
— Prime Minister Michel Barnier of France.
Long Waiting Times at France’s Borders
In contrast to Prime Minister Barnier’s views, some travel experts believe that the reintroduction of border controls will have a negative impact on the country.
These experts have warned travelers from France’s neighboring nations that they should expect long waiting times when entering France starting November 1, 2024. The travelers most likely to be affected include those from Belgium, Luxembourg, Spain, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom.
Additionally, cross-border commuters, as well as business and trade activities, will face significant challenges due to France’s recent measures.
Moreover, the pan-European political party Volt Europa held a protest on November 2 in opposition to the border control reintroductions by France and Germany.
Irregular Migrants to Be Expelled From France
Concerns about irregular migration are a top priority for French authorities. In addition to maintaining border checks, the Western European nation intends to implement further measures to enhance migrant management.
Recently, France’s Interior Minister, Bruno Retailleau, pledged to expel immigrants who enter the country irregularly, aiming to strengthen law and order.
Additionally, Retailleau advocated for a coalition with other EU nations to pressure the European Commission to tighten its immigration regulations.
