Belgium Reinforces Borders: Migration Controls Amid Schengen Challenges
Belgium plans to introduce border checks to reduce illegal migration, impacting the Schengen zone's free movement. The restrictions, beginning this summer, follow similar moves by neighboring countries. The Belgian government's decision aims to curb illegal immigration and accommodate the rising number of asylum applications beyond its current capacity.
Amid growing concerns over illegal migration, Belgium has announced it will implement border checks targeting people entering the country. This move marks another crackdown on free movement within Europe's Schengen zone, as declared by government officials.
The restrictions, set to commence in the summer, underscore Belgium's commitment to controlling immigration amid a broader continental effort. Junior Minister for Migration Anneleen Van Bossuyt highlighted the need for these measures on social media, stressing that Belgium would not serve as a haven for those failing to enter elsewhere.
These checks will be strategically placed along major thoroughfares, including motorway checkpoints, bus traffic hubs, and certain train and flight routes. The policy aligns with priorities set by Prime Minister Bart De Wever to combat migration and address the pressing issue of accommodating asylum seekers.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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