- Critique of Border Regulations: Laborers Endure Hardships
Germany's border controls with Luxembourg and France are drawing flak. The German government's proposed border controls are viewed as going against the EU's concept of free movement of people and goods, potentially harming the regional economy, according to the Trier Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK).
The retail and service sectors heavily rely on Luxembourgish customers. As per IHK CEO Jan Glockauer, should longer wait times at the borders deter Luxembourgish customers from visiting Trier, it could result in a decline in regional revenue. Moreover, these border controls are unlikely to make a substantial impact in curbing nationwide illegal migration.
Avoid Economy's Breakdown
On Monday, the German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser (SPD) ordered temporary checks at all German land borders to manage the influx of illegal entries better. These checks are scheduled to commence on September 16 and last for an initial six months.
According to the Steel Association Saar in Saarbrücken, border controls should not impair the economy. Effective measures should be devised to minimize delays in cross-border commuters and goods traffic. "The creation of 'Fast Lanes', meaning separate lanes for commuters and goods traffic, must be considered from the outset."
Thousands of Daily Cross-Border Workers
On a daily basis, thousands of employees cross national boundaries, noted the association's CEO Antje Otto. Delays at the borders could prevent employees from reaching work on time, leading to operational disruptions within companies.
The Saarland state government reserves the right to scrutinize any limitations introduced for Saarland citizens and border residents, stated Interior Minister Reinhold Jost (SPD). "The federal government's measures should be in effect for the shortest practical duration to preserve Saarland's close ties with its French and Luxembourgish neighbors."
The Saarland Green Party's state chairwoman, Jeanne Dillschneider, forewarned of the "deleterious effects" of these measures. "These controls not only threaten EU cohesion but also cast a disastrous image towards our neighboring countries." The border controls, in truth, are largely unfeasible and could merely exacerbate police overload.
The Saarland state, located near Germany's borders with Luxembourg and France, shares a close economic relationship with its neighboring countries. Any potential delays or complications at the borders due to the proposed border controls could negatively impact businesses reliant on cross-border traffic, such as those in Saarland.
