The European Union's Schengen system of free movement is a failure and the union's external borders must be strengthened. This is what Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer declared at a press conference together with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte.
"In reality, we have a systemic failure. Schengen does not work and the EU asylum procedure we have in place does not work. These are big problems. We are both ardent Europeans. For us, the European Union is the future of Europe, but this means that the institutions must do their job. This means that the European Commission, the monitor of the treaties, must ensure their implementation."
He called for financial support to be given to Bulgaria and Romania, as he opposes their entry into the Schengen area due to his country's concern over the issue of illegal immigration. The chancellor recalled a visit to the border between Bulgaria and Turkey, where, according to him, the situation was difficult.
"Both Bulgaria and Romania need our support when it comes to securing the borders financially. It is about reinforcing the fence that is there. Now, the Commission always gives a categorical "no" in response to this, saying that there will be no money for more fences. But I don't think that should be the last word."
The Schengen Area is the largest area in the world, allowing the free movement of people between 26 European countries.