The system of EU situational pictures showing the current state of the Schengen area

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study is to review the new system of common situational pictures and risk analyses, in line with the ambitions of the EU to strengthen the governance of the Schengen area, and to explore and introduce the different indicators related to these situational pictures.

Methodology: Through document and content analysis, the author examined the theoretical and legal background and regulatory context. The author also identified synergies between the functioning of the JHA forums of the Council of the EU and the content of the situation pictures.

Findings: The Commission’s Schengen 2022 report was found to have facilitated the EU Council’s dialogue on justice and home affairs policy and the monitoring of the Schengen acquis. The subsequent Schengen Barometer and the Barometer Plus tools, launched in March 2023, will effectively identify vulnerabilities and risks and help coordinate the EU response. In addition, from 2024, the three-tier structure of the Schengen Scoreboard will provide details on the different dimensions of the functioning of the Schengen area, including the state of external and internal borders, as well as internal security.

Value: No comprehensive research has previously been carried out that has dealt with the situational pictures of the Schengen area in a complex way. This study is the first to present the existence and functioning of these situation maps, allowing a detailed analysis of aspects not previously explored.