Austria has shown signs of supporting Romania and Bulgaria’s entry into the Schengen Area with full control over land borders. This gesture from Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner follows recognition of the progress these two countries have made in bolstering their border security. Additionally, Austria’s newly appointed EU Migration Commissioner, Magnus Brunner, strongly advocates for the swift accession of Romania and Bulgaria to Schengen.
For Romania and Bulgaria, this is more than just a formality. Brunner believes that full membership will not only strengthen Schengen’s security but also ensure a unified space for free movement. Romania’s representative in the European Parliament, Victor Negrescu, refers to the process as reaching the “final stretch” and anticipates a possible decision by the year’s end, while alternative scenarios consider waiting for the new European Commission.
However, despite the optimism, political issues in Bulgaria could impact the timing. Nonetheless, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) has urged the EU Council to set a definitive date for the full membership of Romania and Bulgaria in Schengen to finally lift all land border controls.
