AN OPTIMISTIC VIEW
The Republic of Cyprus constantly affirms its aspirations of joining the ‘Schengen Area’, and although persistent, the reality of this happening remains far less likely than most predict. Several criteria for joining remain unfulfilled, and with no solid plans to address this, it remains to be seen how Cyprus will achieve its goal of accession.
WHAT IS THE SCHENGEN AREA?
Established by the Schengen Agreement in 1985, the Schengen Area is a region that currently comprises 27 European countries. Schengen membership dictates that each country agrees to abolish passports and other types of border control at their mutual borders, allowing for the free and complete movement of people across each zone. These countries also share a common visa policy that enables all non-European Union travellers to move across member states without the hindrance of further border checks. All non-European Union visitors arriving in Schengen zone countries, however, can be denied entry if they cannot show they have enough funds to sustain themselves for the duration of their trip. The Schengen Agreement facilitates both tourism and trade among its member states and fully promotes economic cooperation and cultural exchange, while enhancing the overall sense of a unified Europe.Â
A PROFOUND SHIFT
If Cyprus were to join, it would signify a profound shift in its socio-economic landscape. The main point of contention is the island’s current geopolitical situation. Its division dominates this, as well as the ongoing tensions with Turkey, which creates an environment that raises significant implications for both Cyprus and the broader Schengen framework. The process would have to involve some rigorous assessments of its border control mechanisms and legal frameworks.Â
WHY IS CYPRUS NOT INCLUDED?
Despite the island’s strategic location and its European Union membership, Cyprus has remained outside of the Schengen Area for several multifaceted reasons. Its exclusion is primarily attributed to the overall political, security, and operational challenges arising from the island’s ongoing division and its direct control of all of its borders, which includes the ‘Green Line’. The situation surrounding the island’s division complicates the implementation of Schengen rules, which require comprehensive border control and security measures. Ultimately, the presence of a non-European Union entity on the island raises concerns about the effective management of external borders, which is a prerequisite for Schengen membership.
SIGNIFICANT IMPLICATIONS
Cyprus would have to meet specific criteria related to security, governance, and visa policy alignment to successfully integrate into the Schengen Area. Many feel that this is not possible within the current environment that exists on the island. There are also unresolved issues regarding immigration and internal security. The Schengen membership mandates robust mechanisms for monitoring and controlling immigration flows, as well as ensuring the safety of member states against any potential threats. The unique demographics and security concerns that are often raised in Cyprus, due to its division, necessitate additional considerations in this context. The island’s future inclusion is contingent upon resolving several of these intricate issues, as it navigates the complex landscape of accession to the Schengen Area.
DIFFERING PERSPECTIVES
The political dynamics within the European Union also play a critical role in the island’s aspirations of joining the Schengen Area. Member states must collectively agree on the inclusion of new countries into the Schengen Model, and the division of Cyprus often leads to differing perspectives. European Union members often refer to the implications of Turkish influence and the unresolved Cypriot political situation and often state that until Cyprus implements a cohesive strategy to address these issues, the possibility of integrating the island into the Schengen framework remains limited.
THE BENEFITS OF JOINING
If Cyprus were to join the Schengen Area, it would allow for unrestricted travel to and from other member states, thereby potentially boosting tourism that would further foster economic growth. Moreover, the island’s inclusion would enhance the external borders of Schengen by improving geographical security in the Eastern Mediterranean. With better border management, the capacity to monitor and regulate migration flows could be strengthened, addressing several concerns related to illegal immigration. For the island, its accession would not only signify a pivotal advancement in its international relations and economic prospects but also contribute to the broader objectives of free movement and unity within Europe. Additionally, the integration of Cyprus into the Schengen framework would deepen the country’s ties with the European Union, reinforcing its position as a credible partner within European Union initiatives.
