Brussels: Today, the European Commission released its fourth State of Schengen report, detailing the significant developments over the past year and outlining priorities for the future. The Schengen area, established 40 years ago, has been instrumental in enhancing the EU’s internal market and improving the lives of nearly 450 million people by facilitating free movement across member states. Last year, this area emerged again as the world’s most popular destination, attracting over half a billion visitors and fueling economic growth across the Union.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Schengen area has evolved into a robust system where member states, with the EU’s support, effectively manage external borders, security, and migration in a coordinated manner. The recently adopted report evaluates the Schengen area’s functionality and serves as the Commission’s contribution to the upcoming June Schengen Council, which will commemorate 40 years since the Schengen Agreement’s signing.
The 2025 State of Schengen report highlights achievements and challenges within the Schengen area during the 2024-2025 cycle. Notably, the full accession of Bulgaria and Romania has reinforced the EU economy and demonstrated member states’ commitment to enhancing Schengen cooperation. The report also notes a decline in irregular crossings at external borders, with 240,000 detections-the lowest since 2021.
The report emphasizes the need for further strengthening political and operational governance, accelerating the digitalization framework to mitigate security risks, and adapting to the evolving security landscape. It also stresses the importance of deepening relations with partner countries and implementing effective measures for returning individuals without legal rights to remain in the EU.
Looking ahead, the Schengen area is set to continue evolving to address new challenges and realities. The Commission plans to work with member states to unlock Schengen’s full potential, focusing on consolidating governance frameworks, enhancing police cooperation, and accelerating the digitalization of procedures and systems to bolster security. The Commission invites the Schengen Council to discuss the report and determine priorities for the 2025-2026 Schengen cycle.
The Commission has been conducting annual evaluations of the State of Schengen since 2022, following the establishment of the Schengen Council, Schengen cycle, and new Schengen evaluation framework. This ongoing assessment underscores the Commission’s initiative to reinforce the Schengen area’s common governance and ensure a coordinated response to its challenges.