EU Urges Germany to End Internal Border Controls Amid Decline in Illegal Migration

The European Union has renewed its calls for Germany to end internal border controls, citing a significant decline in illegal border crossings and improved protection of the EU's external borders. EU Commissioner Magnus Brunner advocated for the gradual abolition of border controls, emphasizing data from Frontex that showed a roughly one-third reduction in irregular crossings at the EU's external frontiers during the first half of this year. Citing countries such as Luxembourg and Austria which have already lifted certain controls, Brunner stressed the time has come for Germany to follow suit.

Germany has maintained border controls since September 2024. These were initially introduced by former Interior Minister Nancy Faeser and later intensified by her successor Alexander Dobrindt. Despite the EU's rules favoring open internal borders, German courts have challenged the legality of some measures. The controls have caused significant delays and traffic congestion, particularly concerning with the upcoming vacation season.

The decline in illegal entries is notable. In June 2026, the German Federal Police recorded approximately 3,300 illegal entries, marking a decrease of nearly 900 from the previous month and down approximately 2,300 compared to June 2025. This decrease coincides with the implementation of the European asylum reform in mid-June, focused on quicker asylum decisions and consistent deportations at external borders.

Despite these developments, German and Austrian interior ministers reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining border controls. However, former European Parliament President Martin Schulz criticized the controls as ineffective and a violation of European law, highlighting the unnecessary strain on travelers.

Additionally, Brunner defended the new Entry-Exit-System for non-EU travelers amid criticisms of long waits at airports, insisting the system functions effectively overall. With the current border control regulations set to expire in September and requiring biannual renewal, pressure mounts on German policymakers to reconsider their stance in light of EU recommendations and migration trends.