Germany's Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) has decided to extend police controls at the country's land borders once again. The ministry submitted an official application to the European Commission for the measure to continue until March 15, 2027. This marks the fourth extension of the temporary measure, which was initiated in September 2024.

figure class="wp-block-image" data-align="center" style="text-align: center;">Interior Minister Dobrindt Wants to Extend Border Controls

Minister Dobrindt defended his decision by stating, "Developments at Europe's external borders show that suppressing illegal migration still requires controls."

The removal of controls at internal borders is generally accepted in the European Union's common visa area, the Schengen zone. However, member states can implement border controls 'in exceptional circumstances' and 'as a temporary measure.' Germany is exercising this right, citing migration pressure.

The measure was first initiated by then-Interior Minister Nancy Faeser (SPD) on September 16, 2024. Since then, controls have continued at Germany's land borders with Poland, Czechia, Austria, and Switzerland. The measure, most recently extended until September 2026, will remain in effect until March 15, 2027, this time, if there are no objections from the European Commission.

While criticism of the measure continues, it is stated that the German government will resolutely pursue this step as part of its efforts to combat migration.