成立40年，申根区遭遇“中年危机”？《环球时报》记者探访申根小镇

Core Viewpoint - The Schengen Area, established 40 years ago, is facing a "midlife crisis" due to increasing border controls by member states, raising questions about its future as a symbol of European unity and free movement [1][6][11]. Group 1: Historical Context and Significance - The Schengen Agreement was signed in 1985 by five countries (Germany, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg) to eliminate border checks and promote free movement, which has significantly contributed to EU economic development and integration [1][4]. - The Schengen Area now includes 29 countries, covering a population of 450 million, and is considered a major achievement of European integration, allowing for the free flow of people and goods [4][10]. Group 2: Current Challenges - Since the 2015 refugee crisis, many Schengen countries have reinstated border controls, with 12 out of 29 countries currently implementing such measures, leading to concerns about the erosion of the Schengen principles [5][6][7]. - The European Commission has criticized these temporary border checks as a "diminution" of the free travel principle, indicating a lack of systematic evaluation of their necessity [7][9]. Group 3: Economic Implications - The Schengen Area facilitates logistics and trade, with transit speeds between member countries being 20 times faster than between non-member countries, significantly benefiting EU businesses [10]. - In 2024, trade within the Schengen Area is projected to exceed €4.1 trillion, and it remains the world's most visited destination, attracting over 500 million tourists annually [10]. Group 4: Public Sentiment and Political Dynamics - A survey indicated that 72% of Europeans view the Schengen Area as one of the EU's major achievements, reflecting a strong public sentiment in favor of free movement [10]. - However, rising populism and political pressures have led to stricter border controls, with some analysts suggesting that these measures are more symbolic than effective in addressing immigration issues [8][9]. Group 5: Future Considerations - The future of the Schengen Area hinges on whether it will continue to promote free movement for all legal residents or become a more exclusive framework that prioritizes certain groups [11][12]. - Calls for unity and coordinated immigration governance have emerged as essential for maintaining the principles of the Schengen Area amidst growing challenges [12].