Migration: EU Commissioner Calls for Removal of German Border Controls

European Union Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner is urging the gradual dismantling of internal border controls within the Schengen Area. He believes the current climate, marked by a significant decrease in irregular border crossings and the recent implementation of the EU's new asylum reform, known as the 'Geas' package, makes this the opportune moment.

According to Frontex, the EU's border agency, irregular crossings at the bloc's external borders fell by approximately one-third in the first six months of the year compared to the same period in 2025. The Geas reform, which replaced the Dublin Regulation, aims to streamline asylum procedures and manage migration flows more effectively across member states.

Germany has maintained its own border checks since September 2024, initially implemented by the former Interior Minister Nancy Faeser and subsequently intensified by her successor, Alexander Dobrindt. These controls, currently set to expire in September, have been a point of contention, with Brunner advocating for their removal to facilitate free movement within the EU.

Brunner also addressed criticisms of the new digital Entry-Exit System (EES), designed to register non-EU travelers. While acknowledging reports of significant delays and passenger frustration at some airports, particularly in Greece and Portugal, he asserted that the system itself is functioning effectively. The EES aims to enhance border security and manage entry and exit data more efficiently.

“

The system itself functions very, very well.