Brussels evaluates the border control measures implemented by Germany
The European Commission hasn't made a decision on endorsing extensive border controls in Germany as of now. Minister Faeser's proposal is under consideration. However, it seems that the obstacles are substantial, as hinted by Brussels.
In line with European standards, Commission spokesperson Anitta Hipper mentioned in Brussels that border controls instated by member states need to be "essential and appropriate" and must adhere to the guidelines of the Schengen Border Code. Thus, such actions should remain rare exceptions, she emphasized.
Hipper and chief spokesperson Eric Mamer refrained from commenting on whether the new German border controls conform to these standards. Both emphasized that the German administration has reported the measures in Brussels and they are now under review. "Everything beyond this is conjecture," Hipper stated.
The Commission addressed the concern that if other European countries also intensify border controls following Germany's lead. Austria has previously declared its reluctance to take in refugees rejected by Germany.
The main aim of the border controls is to increase the number of rejections
On Monday, Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser announced plans for border checks at all of Germany's land borders. These measures are set to commence on September 16th and will initially last for six months. Faeser justified this move as a necessity to "curb unlawful migration" and "secure internal safety."
The Schengen Agreement has granted free travel within Europe since 1995. Border checks should only occur at the Schengen area's external borders, which includes 29 countries. In exceptional circumstances, member states can reinstate controls - as seen in the case of Germany, for an initial six months, with an option for extension. Previously, countries such as France and Italy have implemented these measures due to the refugee crisis and terror threats.
Talks on migration policy moves have been ongoing at the Federal Ministry of the Interior since the afternoon. The initial discussion on Tuesday concluded without a resolution. Minister Faeser had pledged to achieve more rejections than before on Wednesday, with the Union making this a prerequisite for participating in the subsequent meeting.
The European Commission is currently assessing whether Germany's proposed border controls meet the necessary standards as outlined in the Schengen Border Code, given by Commission spokesperson Anitta Hipper in Brussels. The Commission's main concern is that if other European countries adopt similar measures, as hinted by Austria's previous reluctance towards accepting refugees rejected by Germany.
