Netherlands to Introduce Land Border Controls From December 9

The Netherlands is set to become the latest Schengen member state to introduce internal land border controls with its neighbouring countries.

As announced by the Dutch Migration Minister Marjolein Faber, the country will officially impose land border controls starting on December 9, 2024, Schengen.News reports.

Such a statement from Minister Faber was made in a press release following Cabinet approval. In addition to making this announcement, the Minister further explained that this measure is being implemented in an attempt to address irregular migration to the country and tackle human trafficking.

According to Minister Faber, it is about time that the country tackles these two issues in a concrete way, stressing that border controls are the measure to go.

The Dutch authorities explained that the border controls will remain effective for a period of six months. This means that the measure, which will be introduced on the second Monday of December, will initially stay in place until June 9, 2025. However, if the situation does not improve, the Netherlands might decide to extend the border controls for another period of time.

The Marechaussee, which is the national gendarmerie force of the Netherlands, currently conducts spot inspections along the country’s borders. However, once the measure becomes effective, the checks will be more strict. Minister Faber said that they will work to minimise the effect of checks on commuter and economic traffic.

Netherlands’ Decision Influenced by Germany
The decision of the Netherlands to impose border controls at its land border has been seen as highly influenced by that of Germany.

Germany decided to introduce checks at all its land borders on September 16 for a period of six months. Since then, everyone who has been entering Germany from any of its neighbouring countries has been required to undergo controls.

As explained by the German authorities, the main aim of the reinforcement of checks was to put an end to irregular migration.

The German authorities have said that the controls have had a positive effect so far. It is yet to be seen if the Netherlands will also register a drop in irregular migration and human trafficking once border controls are in place.

In addition to Germany, France has also reinstated border controls with its neighbouring countries, with the authorities citing irregular migration and terrorist threats reasons.

Source: https://schengen.news/netherlands-to-introduce-land-border-controls-from-december-9/