An IMGW News Report
Switzerland is poised to tighten border controls in response to growing concerns over irregular migration and internal security. The Swiss Federal Council has endorsed a proposal from the State Policy Commission of the Council of States, calling for more stringent border checks. This move aims to prevent the entry of individuals without residence rights or the intention to seek asylum.
The Federal Council’s support for increased monitoring reflects a desire to safeguard internal security, though it emphasised that the measures must remain consistent with Switzerland’s obligations under the Schengen framework. Specifically, the strengthened controls must respect the non-refoulement principle, which prohibits deporting individuals to countries where they face the risk of the death penalty or other serious harm.
Although details of the border control enhancements remain scarce, it is expected that travellers will not face significant delays. Typically, when Schengen countries introduce tighter checks, they implement targeted inspections, minimising disruptions to cross-border travel. Daily commuters are unlikely to be affected unless there are unusually long queues.
This development comes as Germany, another Schengen member, extends its own internal border controls. Last week, Chancellor Olaf Scholz confirmed that Germany would maintain its border checks until September 2025, citing concerns over irregular migration and the activities of smugglers.
Switzerland’s move is part of a broader trend within the Schengen area, where nations are reinforcing border security to address migration pressures and ensure the safety of their citizens. How Switzerland’s approach will unfold in practice remains to be seen, but it marks a significant step in the country’s ongoing efforts to manage migration while upholding its international commitments
