Criticism of border controls: Frankfurt (Oder) and Slubice demand freedom!

Criticism of border controls: Frankfurt (Oder) and Slubice demand freedom!

In the European twin cities of Frankfurt (Oder) and Slubice, concern is growing about current developments on the German-Polish border. On July 3, 2025, the city administrations from both sides called for a de-escalation of border policy in a joint communication. They criticize the Polish government, which has announced new border controls. These measures, according to the cities, contradict the principles of free movement enshrined in the Schengen Agreement since 1985 and endanger the free movement of goods and people in the region, which ultimately also burdens the European economy. [RBB24].

Criticism of border controls is not new. For 40 years, the Schengen Agreement has shown how important open borders are for European integration. This agreement not only reduced physical separation between member states, but also promoted social and economic exchanges. According to Science.lu, the Schengen zone has made cross-border life easier and led to a sense of transnationality in border areas. This could be seriously jeopardized by current developments.

Social impact

As already mentioned, the Polish government's policies are worrying not only for the economy, but also for social cohesion in the region. City authorities emphasize the need to avoid violating Schengen principles, as border controls increase social tensions and promote exclusion rather than integration. They also warn of the threat of a vigilante group that could become active as part of the controls. These groups could target minorities and people with dark skin and in this context also spread false information. The cities are calling on their citizens not to take part in hostilities against foreigners in order to ensure peaceful coexistence.

In addition to the long waiting times, the return to systematic controls also causes economic disadvantages for the border region. The open borders have not only made the movement of goods easier, but have also made the labor market more dynamic, as bpb.de explains. Cross-border workers are an immense economic resource for countries like Luxembourg, which shows how important intelligent migration and border policies are.

The future of the Schengen agreement

The situation at the German-Polish border is currently also raising questions about the future challenges of the Schengen Agreement. There is an urgent need for reforms to ensure freedom of movement in Europe while strengthening internal security. Greater cooperation at the external borders and a comprehensive plan on migration could be crucial approaches to maintaining the balance between security and freedom. The need for a common European strategy that focuses on the causes of migration and flight is becoming increasingly important.

In summary, it can be said that developments on the German-Polish border could have far-reaching effects on European integration, the economy and society. It remains to be seen whether the affected states will be able to find a consensus that respects the principles of the Schengen Agreement while at the same time meeting the challenges of migration.