The Schengen Agreement: Understanding Its Definition in English

The Schengen Agreement is undoubtedly one of the most important agreements in modern European history. It was signed in 1985 by five European countries, with the primary objective of abolishing the internal borders between them. Since then, the agreement has been signed by a total of 26 European countries, including most members of the European Union (EU).

The Schengen Agreement is named after the small Luxembourgish town where it was signed. It established the Schengen Area, which is a territory comprising of 26 European countries that have abolished passport and other types of border control at their mutual borders. The countries in the Schengen Area operate under a common set of rules and regulations, making it easier for people to travel freely within the zone, both for business and leisure purposes.

The Schengen Agreement has had a significant impact on European travel, trade, and culture. It has made it easier for people to travel, work, and live across borders, and has fostered a greater sense of unity and cooperation among member states. However, it has also been the subject of much debate and controversy in recent years, particularly in the context of the ongoing refugee crisis and concerns over security and terrorism.

In English, the Schengen Agreement is defined as « an agreement signed in 1985 by several European countries, providing for the abolition of passport and other types of border control at their mutual borders and the adoption of a common visa policy ». This definition highlights the key features of the agreement, namely the abolition of internal borders and the adoption of a common visa policy.

One of the important things to understand about the Schengen Agreement is that it applies only to the movement of people, not goods, services, or capital. It also does not create a unified European immigration policy. Rather, it sets common rules and procedures for the issuing of visas and the control of external borders, and establishes a shared visa information system to facilitate security checks and prevent illegal migration.

In summary, the Schengen Agreement is a landmark agreement in European history that has had a significant impact on travel, trade, and culture on the continent. Its definition in English emphasizes the abolition of internal borders and the adoption of a common visa policy, but it is important to understand its limitations and the ongoing debates surrounding its implementation and impact.