PES - Party of European Socialists

06/12/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/12/2025 09:13

PES Home Affairs ministers: 40 years of the Schengen Agreement – a cornerstone of European Unity

Today in Luxembourg, PES Home Affairs ministers met ahead of the Justice and Home Affairs Council to coordinate the common positions of our progressive family.

At the heart of the discussions was the 40th anniversary of the Schengen Agreement, a landmark achievement in European integration that has come to symbolise much more than the elimination of internal borders. Ministers underlined the Schengen Area's role as a tangible expression of freedom, equality and collective progress within the European Union.

The meeting was chaired by Spain's Minister of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlaska who said:

'' This year, we are celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Schengen Agreement, which symbolises both freedom of movement and economic strength. A significant proportion of our GDP depends on the seamless logistics and trade that are made possible by the absence of internal borders. So today, we are reminded of the freedoms we enjoy thanks to this enduring symbol of European integration.

However, such freedoms are under increasing pressure. Populist forces are attempting to rewrite the narrative on home affairs and migration, pushing for fragmentation instead of cooperation. This growing trend places mounting pressure on the Schengen Area and clearly signals that we must do more to protect it. This includes reinforcing our European cooperation, strengthening cross-border partnerships, working closely with third countries to manage our external borders and effectively digitising our border management systems.

Another important item on the agenda today is the fight against child sexual abuse online. The sharp increase in such abuse over the last two decades is deeply concerning. We must act firmly and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to protecting children and young people in the digital space."

Progressive Home Affairs Ministers also exchanged views on the upcoming implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES). The EES is expected to enter into force later this year, helping to secure borders while facilitating smoother and more efficient cross-border travel.

12 June also marks the 40th anniversary of Spain and Portugal signing the Treaty of Accession to the European Economic Community (EEC). Ministers warmly acknowledged this significant achievement, which firmly established the Iberian Peninsula within the European project.

The next meeting of Justice and Home Affairs ministers is scheduled for 13-14 October 2025 during the Danish Presidency of the Council of the EU.

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