The economic impact of internal border controls

ITEM has prepared a briefing on the economic impact of internal border controls, at the request of the European Parliament’s Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE). The report concludes that the Schengen Agreement delivers substantial economic and social benefits by facilitating free movement, trade, employment, tourism and cross-border cooperation. However, the increasing reintroduction of internal border controls creates significant costs through delays, administrative burdens and disruption to businesses and communities, particularly in border regions. The briefing highlights the importance of proportionality, stronger external border management, and the use of alternative police and security measures that preserve free movement within Schengen.