In the latest State of Schengen Report, published on May 16, the EU Commission has called on the Council to allow Romania and Bulgaria to become full members of the Schengen Area in 2023.
The report highlights the achievements of the European bloc in relation to its borderless area and outlines key priorities for the upcoming year. The call comes ahead of the second Schengen Council scheduled for June 8.
Schengen Accession Listed as Top Priority
The EU Commission emphasizes the importance of European unity and urges the Council to enable Romania and Bulgaria to join Schengen in a press release accompanying the report. The inclusion of these two countries in the Schengen Area is identified as one of the bloc’s primary objectives.
Croatia’s Membership Recognized as Significant Achievement
The report also acknowledges the accession of Croatia to the Schengen Area as a notable accomplishment since the previous year.
Ylva Johansson, the Commissioner for Home Affairs, describes the Schengen Area as “the beating heart of Europe” and stresses its role in connecting member states.
Enhanced police cooperation, improved information exchange, border monitoring, and visa oversight are highlighted as operational benefits resulting from increased membership.