Brussels, June 13, 2025 — On the 40th anniversary of the signing of the Schengen Agreement, the Council of the European Union has formally adopted a new Schengen Declaration , reaffirming its unwavering commitment to preserving and strengthening Europe’s groundbreaking zone of free movement. The declaration underscores the importance of Schengen not only as an economic and social cornerstone but also as a symbol of European unity, resilience, and shared values.

The commemoration comes at a time when the Schengen area — now the world’s largest free movement zone — faces complex challenges ranging from migration pressures to evolving security threats. With over 450 million citizens benefiting from borderless travel, and more than two million people commuting daily across internal borders, the EU continues to rely on Schengen as a vital mechanism for fostering integration, trade, and cooperation.

A Pledge for Unity and Security

Polish Minister of the Interior and Administration, Tomasz Siemoniak , who currently holds the rotating presidency of the Council, emphasized the enduring significance of Schengen in today’s uncertain geopolitical climate:

“We have come together on the 40th anniversary of the signing of the Schengen Agreement to highlight our common commitment to Europe’s security, building resilience and readiness for today’s challenges,” said Siemoniak.

“Guided by our shared values, we pledge to continue investing in the common area without internal borders, ensuring strong management of our external borders, a more effective fight against illegal migration and a high level of internal security.”

Seven Pillars to Strengthen Schengen

In response to mounting pressures, the Council outlined seven key commitments aimed at reinforcing the integrity and effectiveness of the Schengen area:

1. Upholding Core Values : Promoting respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law, and human rights within a unified space of freedom, security, and justice.
2. Preserving Free Movement : Ensuring that internal border controls remain a last resort while enhancing external border management, addressing secondary movements, and combating cross-border crime and terrorism.
3. Enhancing Law Enforcement Cooperation : Deepening inter-agency collaboration and leveraging advanced IT systems to bolster security and facilitate seamless mobility.
4. Humanely Managing Migration Flows : Preventing unauthorized entry and facilitating dignified returns for those without legal status.
5. Strengthening External Relations : Improving visa policy, border control, and international cooperation with third countries on return and readmission processes.
6. Building Mutual Trust : Encouraging joint responses to Schengen-related challenges among member states.
7. Investing in the Future : Allocating sufficient resources and embracing innovation to ensure Schengen remains technologically and operationally robust.

A Legacy of Integration

Signed on June 14, 1985 , by five founding countries — Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands — the Schengen Agreement laid the foundation for what would become one of the most tangible achievements of European integration. Initially a bold experiment, it evolved into a transformative reality with the Schengen Convention of 1990 , which came into force in 1995, abolishing internal border checks between participating nations.

Today, the Schengen Area encompasses 29 countries , including all EU members except Cyprus and Ireland, as well as four non-EU countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

Economic and Social Impact

Beyond its symbolic value, Schengen plays a critical role in Europe’s economy. Intra-EU trade reached a record €4.1 trillion in 2024 , facilitated by frictionless movement of goods and labor. Moreover, Schengen makes the EU the world’s top tourist destination , attracting nearly 40% of global international travelers annually.

As the EU looks ahead, the renewed Schengen Declaration serves as both a tribute to past achievements and a blueprint for future resilience. By combining historical legacy with modern adaptability, the bloc aims to safeguard one of its most cherished freedoms — the right to move freely across a continent once divided, now united.

The Council approves a declaration to mark the 40th anniversary of the signing of the Schengen Agreement.

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