Austria has formally announced the removal of its veto against Bulgaria and Romania’s accession to the Schengen Area by land, marking a historic milestone for the two countries’ European integration.
The decision was confirmed by Austria’s Interior Ministry ahead of the upcoming Justice and Home Affairs Council meeting, scheduled for Thursday.
Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner stated that Austria would not oppose the motion to include Bulgaria and Romania in the Schengen zone during the Council meeting.
He emphasized that Austria’s decision facilitates progress toward the long-awaited removal of land border checks for the two Balkan nations starting January 1 next year.
Shift in Austria’s Stance
The announcement represents a significant policy shift for Austria, which had previously been among the most vocal opponents of Bulgaria and Romania’s Schengen aspirations.
Karner highlighted the strategic importance of this decision, framing it as an opportunity for the European Union’s interior ministers to advance the integration process smoothly.
“Our change of stance ensures that the EU can move forward on this matter,” Karner said. “Austria will not exercise its veto power, and we are optimistic about the forthcoming approval.”
The announcement has sparked optimism among EU officials and the governments of Bulgaria and Romania, both of which have been lobbying for full Schengen membership for over a decade.
Support from the Netherlands
The shift in Austria’s position aligns with a recent proposal from the Dutch government, which also supports Bulgaria’s Schengen membership by land.
Dutch authorities have indicated there is no significant opposition expected from their parliament, paving the way for Bulgaria’s inclusion in the free movement area.
The Dutch stance has been instrumental in overcoming past roadblocks, which often cited concerns about border security and corruption as reasons for delaying Schengen membership for the two nations.
Implications for Bulgaria and Romania
For Bulgaria and Romania, the lifting of Austria’s veto brings them closer to full participation in the European Union’s border-free Schengen Area.
If approved at the December 12 vote, the move would end years of waiting for the two countries, which have already met the technical criteria for membership.
The planned removal of land border checks starting January 1, 2025, will significantly ease travel and trade within the European Union, bolstering economic ties and fostering regional cooperation.
Warm Reception in the EU
The decision has been welcomed as a long-overdue development by EU officials and leaders from Bulgaria and Romania. Both nations have expressed gratitude for the shift in Austria’s stance and look forward to the Justice and Home Affairs Council meeting to finalize the decision.
“This is a momentous occasion for Bulgaria and Romania,” said a Bulgarian government spokesperson. “We remain committed to upholding the integrity of the Schengen Area and ensuring secure and efficient borders.”
As Austria and the Netherlands ease their opposition, the forthcoming Council meeting is expected to clear the way for Bulgaria and Romania to finally join the Schengen Area by land, solidifying their place within Europe’s border-free zone.