This image shows the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany, during a stunning sunset
The Brandenburg Gate is one of Berlin’s most iconic landmarks and a symbol of peace and unity. Originally built in the late 18th century,
Germany has formally aligned with Austria, France, Italy, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, and Bulgaria in a significant policy shift to reintroduce internal Schengen border checks. The move, aimed at curbing irregular migration and strengthening national security, signals a growing regional consensus on tightening internal EU border enforcement.
Under the leadership of newly elected Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Germany has launched a comprehensive border security initiative across all nine of its land frontiers. As of May 6, 2025, strict control measures are being enforced at crossings with Austria, France, Switzerland, Poland, the Czech Republic, Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Luxembourg.
To support this operation, the federal government has deployed an additional 3,000 border police officers, bringing the total force to over 14,000 personnel. These officers are now actively stationed at key checkpoints and strategic roadways to manage cross-border movement more effectively.
The new enforcement framework includes updated protocols allowing German authorities to refuse entry to undocumented individuals arriving from other EU member states. This approach aligns with similar policies adopted by neighboring countries and highlights a broader trend within the Schengen Area toward reasserting national control over internal borders—despite ongoing debate about the implications for free movement and European integration.