Refugees and Open Borders: How sustainable is the Schengen?

Abstract

 

The Schengen has been a prime example of European integration, providing citizens of member states the unique experience of travelling across borders without the inconvenience of border checks. However, the recent peak in the flow of refugees and a changing political environment has challenged the agreement and out the future of open borders in Europe into question. This article initially establishes the background on the Schengen and Dublin conventions, the benefits they have brought to member states and the role they have played in European integration. Subsequently, the challenges brought by refugees and the reactions of European nations is then discussed and finally the attempts by members to address the current challenges are assessed. In summary, I argue that the situation can only be resolved with political will from all member states in order to make the tough decisions required to maintain an achievement that was itself reached after a collective effort by all member states. There is also a need to realize the extra burden that frontier states are bearing and the need for sharing the responsibility of any collective decision. Inaction or counterproductive measures would either challenge the moral responsibility of the EU in protecting those risking their lives to reach its shores or result in the end of a borderless Schengen zone. Both scenarios are undesired, underscoring the importance of robust, collective action.