Germany's Border Controls Face Criticism from Neighbors and Commuters

Nearly 1,200 illegal entries recorded since September as Germany extends border checks, sparking backlash over economic and cultural disruptions.

Germany reinstated border controls in September 2024 at crossings with France, Luxembourg, and Belgium, citing efforts to curb illegal migration.
Federal police reported 1,159 illegal entries during the first three months, with the majority originating from France and Luxembourg.
Critics, including Luxembourg's government and regional leaders in Germany, argue the controls harm cross-border commuters and economic ties without addressing significant migration pressures.
Luxembourg's parliament has called for legal action against the controls, emphasizing their impact on over 225,000 daily commuters, including 55,000 from Germany.
Interior Minister Nancy Faeser plans to extend the measures beyond March 2025, but their future may depend on the outcome of Germany's February federal elections.