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Working Group - Schengen and Borders Scrutiny

A map showing the European countries that are members of the Schengen passport-free area
Schengen Area © European Union, European Parliament 2025

In October 2024, the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE) of the European Parliament has set up a Schengen and Borders Scrutiny Working Group (SBSWG) with the mandate for scrutiny of the functioning of the Schengen area and European integrated border management. It meets on a monthly basis, in camera. The Chair of the working group is Lena DÜPONT (EPP/DE).

The new working group builds on the activities of two other working groups that operated during previous mandates - SSWG and FSWG.

The LIBE Schengen Scrutiny Working Group (SSWG), set up in 2016, had as its general mandate the scrutiny of the functioning of the Schengen area including the absence of internal border controls and their temporary reintroduction.

The LIBE Working Group on Frontex Scrutiny (FSWG) was set up on 29 January 2021 with a broad mandate on the monitoring of the functioning of the agency, including its reinforced role and resources for integrated border management, the application of the EU acquis, and of Regulations (EU) 2019/1896 and 656/2014, compliance with fundamental rights, transparency, and accountability towards Parliament.

Mandate

The Schengen and Borders Scrutiny Working Group (SBSWG) has a general mandate for scrutiny of the functioning of the Schengen area and European integrated border management, including:

  • the absence of internal border controls and their temporary reintroduction;
  • all aspects of the functioning of the European Border and Coast Guard Agency;
  • the results of the Schengen evaluation mechanism and the follow-up of the implementation of the action plans;
  • the implementation of the multiannual policy cycle for European integrated border management;
  • the implementation and use of large-scale information systems in the field of justice and home affairs according to their legal basis;
  • the implementation of the border management and visa related funds.

24 June 2025 - Reporting back to committee

The Chair of the Working Group, outlined its activities during the first half of 2025. The WG examined the Schengen area's functioning and European integrated border management, meeting four times. Key topics included Romania and Bulgaria's accession, Frontex operations and expansion plans, Schengen evaluations, and recent amendments to the Schengen Borders Code. It also addressed internal border controls and cooperation with third countries. Members highlighted ongoing challenges of the Agreement, particularly regarding Schengen-associated countries and rights monitoring at external borders. They emphasized the need for transparency, greater NGO involvement, proper implementation of legal changes, oversight of Frontex's growth, and managing internal border restorations and third-country cooperation.

The next meeting will focus on Fundamental Rights within the Schengen framework. Regular interlocutors include the European Commission, Frontex, EU agencies, Member States, and NGOs.