The Schengen Agreement, which came into effect in 1995, is an important treaty that facilitates free movement of people within 26 European countries. However, while it has numerous advantages, the agreement also has its disadvantages. In this article, we will delve into the disadvantages of the Schengen Agreement in detail.

1. Lack of border control:

One of the biggest disadvantages of the Schengen Agreement is the lack of border control. As a result of this agreement, people can travel freely within the Schengen Area without having to go through immigration controls at each border. However, this freedom of movement also creates the possibility that dangerous individuals can enter the Schengen Area unchecked.

2. Increased cross-border crime:

The lack of border control also leads to increased cross-border crime. Criminals can move freely through the Schengen Area, making it more challenging for law enforcement agencies to track them down. This has led to an increase in illegal activities such as drug trafficking, human smuggling, and terrorism.

3. Unequal distribution of migrants:

The Schengen Agreement also facilitates the free movement of migrants within the Schengen Area. However, this has led to an unequal distribution of migrants, with some countries seeing a sudden influx of migrants while others do not see many. This has created tensions between countries, with some calling for a revision of the Schengen Agreement to address this issue.

4. Strain on public services:

The influx of migrants into certain countries has put a strain on public services such as healthcare, education, and housing. These services may not be adequately prepared to handle the sudden increase in demand, leading to a decline in quality and access to these services.

5. Negative impact on the economy:

The Schengen Agreement can also have a negative impact on the economy of certain countries, particularly those that are dependent on tourism. With the lack of border control, it becomes easier for criminals and terrorists to enter the Schengen Area, leading to a decline in tourist numbers.

In conclusion, while the Schengen Agreement has brought many benefits to the European Union, it also has its disadvantages. The lack of border control, increased cross-border crime, unequal distribution of migrants, strain on public services, and negative impact on the economy are just some of the challenges that come with this agreement. As such, there is a need for a review and revision of the Schengen Agreement to address these issues.