Bulgaria and Romania partially join Europe's Schengen area
Partial integration of Bulgaria and Romania into Schengen highlights progress amid challenges and commitment to full membership.
- Bilawal Riaz
- 1 min read
Bulgaria and Romania have partially joined the Schengen area of free movement after a 13-year wait, with Austria’s opposition preventing full membership, specifically at land borders due to concerns over undocumented migration. This partial integration involves free-travel by air and sea, seen as a practical and symbolic milestone for the two countries. The Schengen zone now has 29 members, but truck drivers face challenges with long border queues and financial losses. Both countries are committed to full Schengen membership by the end of this year, focusing on managing irregular migration and enhancing border security.