The Schengen Agreement, which was signed in 1985 in the town of Schengen, Luxembourg, is an important treaty that allows for free movement of people between European countries that are part of the agreement. The treaty was named after the town of Schengen in which it was signed, and it is considered to be one of the most significant achievements of the European Union.
So, who is part of the Schengen Agreement? There are currently 26 countries that are part of the Schengen Area. These countries include the following:
– Austria
– Belgium
– Czech Republic
– Denmark
– Estonia
– Finland
– France
– Germany
– Greece
– Hungary
– Iceland
– Italy
– Latvia
– Liechtenstein
– Lithuania
– Luxembourg
– Malta
– Netherlands
– Norway
– Poland
– Portugal
– Slovakia
– Slovenia
– Spain
– Sweden
– Switzerland
These countries have abolished internal border checks and controls, which means that citizens of these countries can travel freely within the Schengen Area without the need for passports or visas. This makes it easier for people to travel, do business and work across borders. The Schengen Agreement has also helped to boost tourism and trade in Europe.
However, it`s important to note that not all countries in the European Union are part of the Schengen Area. Some EU countries such as the United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Romania, and Bulgaria are not part of the Schengen Area. There are also non-EU countries that are part of the Schengen Area, such as Switzerland, Norway, and Liechtenstein.
In conclusion, the Schengen Agreement has made traveling and doing business in Europe much easier and more efficient. The 26 countries that are part of the Schengen Area have abolished internal border checks and controls, which means that citizens of these countries can travel freely within the area. Despite not all EU countries being part of the Schengen Agreement, it remains a significant achievement of the European Union and an important treaty for the free movement of people and goods in Europe.