Söder and neighbors: Brenner relief in the context of migration!

Söder and neighbors: Brenner relief in the context of migration!

Several high-ranking politicians met in Vienna today to discuss pressing issues of migration policy and transit traffic. Bavarian Prime Minister Markus Söder was in talks with his counterparts from Austria and Italy, with the main aim being to relieve transit traffic on the Brenner and to discuss measures to deport migrants. It was emphasized that effective protection of one's own external borders is essential to address the migration challenges that affect all of Europe, reported derStandard.at.

Particular attention was paid to the latest developments regarding border controls in Germany, which have been introduced at all land borders since September 16, 2024. These checks are carried out on a random basis and are intended not only to curb unwanted migration, but also to combat crime. Travelers and commuters are requested to always carry a valid identity document with them. This measure is being implemented flexibly by the Federal Police, although the economic impact on the movement of goods and travel cannot be ignored. The industry is expressing concerns about possible delays, particularly at the Bavarian borders, where there are frequent traffic jams Tagesschau.de reported in detail.

The effects of border controls

The introduction of these controls was preceded by stationary controls at the borders with Poland, the Czech Republic and Switzerland, which have been in place since October 2023 and were recently extended. There have been constant controls at the German-Austrian border since 2015. Newer regulations also affect the borders with France, Denmark, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg, with security risks from irregular migration and terrorism being used as justification in many cases. French control has existed since July 20, 2024, supposedly due to the Olympic Games, like Tagesschau.de reported.

Another background to these developments is the situation in Poland, where border controls were introduced some time ago. These are aimed primarily at the illegal smuggling of migrants, while normal travelers should not be affected, according to Polish Interior Minister Tomasz Siemoniak. However, the attempt to maintain freedom of travel in the Schengen area has faltered in recent months as more countries adopt similar measures. The EU appears increasingly powerless on this issue, which could trigger a discussion at an upcoming summit on the Zugspitze about tightening asylum policy, as in an article by South German newspaper is presented.

In summary, ongoing border controls not only have a significant impact on the mobility of people, but could also endanger economic relations and the movement of goods between countries. Politicians and business representatives agree: It is important to find a balance between security and the necessary freedom of movement, which is at the heart of European integration.