Norway has decided to extend the internal border controls with its neighbouring Schengen countries for another 20 days, until December 1, 2024.
Announcing the extension, the Norwegian Minister of Justice and Emergency Services, Emilie Mehl, said that this measure is being prolonged in an attempt to provide more protection for citizens of the country against any possible acts of terrorism, Schengen.News reports.
Norway initially introduced internal border controls in October of this year. The measure was set to remain effective only until October 22, but taking into account the situation, it was extended until November 11.
Now that the current measure is ending, Minister Mehl said that border controls would not be dropped, stressing the importance of greater control at the country’s borders.
Minister Mehl did not reveal if this will be the last extension. However, it is believed that the internal border control of Norway with the other Schengen member countries will continue to be prolonged for as long as they are needed.
Police Will Ensure Smooth Traffic Flow at Border, Ministry Says
During the time that border controls are in place, the Norwegian Ministry of Justice and Emergency Preparedness said that the police will ensure that border traffic flows as smoothly as possible.
The Ministry further emphasised that the internal controls are temporary and will be terminated as soon as the threat level is reduced.
At the same time, Minister Mehl also extended the temporary arming of the police for another three months.
According to the Minister, the police of the country must continue to be armed as the terrorist threat is still high.
Several EU Countries Have Tightened Border Measures
Norway is not the only Schengen country that has taken measures so far to protect national safety and security against terrorist threats.
Denmark and Sweden just recently enhanced their border protection. Denmark said that it would carry out more security measures while Sweden extended its border controls for another six months.
France also extended its border controls until April 2025 amid terrorist threats and irregular migration concerns, and Germany introduced checks at all its land border crossings. A number of other Schengen countries also currently have internal border controls in place.
Source: https://schengen.news/norway-extends-internal-schengen-border-checks-until-december-1/
