Chain reaction caused by border controls: people and the economy suffer!

Chain reaction caused by border controls: people and the economy suffer!

In recent months, border controls within the EU have tightened significantly. This development not only impacts the free movement of goods, but also the entire economic structure of the region. As the Greens report in their article, we can speak of a domino effect: border controls and blockades lead to a chain reaction in Europe that ultimately harms people and the economy in equal measure. On top of that, people in the border regions often find themselves stuck in long traffic jams and experience what this means for their everyday lives.

What are the specific complaints from the economy? Frank Huster, general manager of the Federal Association of Forwarding and Logistics, and Volker Treier, head of foreign trade at the DIHK, express concern about the negative signals emanating from border controls. They are a reminder of how painful the long truck traffic jams and delivery bottlenecks were during the corona pandemic. The logistics industry is already struggling with inadequate infrastructure and many construction sites. These new restrictions at the borders with Poland, the Czech Republic, Switzerland, France, Denmark, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg, which will initially apply for six months, could further aggravate the situation.

Impact on the movement of goods

Even before the current developments, there were challenges in cross-border logistics. Be it bureaucratic hurdles or long waiting times at border crossings - it is no secret that the free movement of goods in the EU does not always run smoothly. In particular, the different health regulations that have existed during the pandemic are adding additional stress to the process. Although the EU has established common rules and procedures, there are often significant differences in implementation depending on the country. This not only leads to confusion, but also to delays in transport.

Particularly critical attention is paid to the costs incurred by these border controls. The logistics industry fears that extended travel times and additional formalities could significantly affect not only the supply chains, but also the entire freight and commuter traffic. In a worst-case scenario, other nations could also build border fences in response, further straining the situation.

The need for action

Urgent action is required to address these challenges. Politicians like Merz and Dobrindt are called upon to take initiatives to end this isolation and economic burden. This could ultimately also strengthen the resilience of the internal market, as envisaged by the new IMERA law, which is intended to facilitate the cross-border movement of essential goods.

The free movement of goods and services within the EU is historically crucial for the economy and the transport industry. If we do not take action, we risk not only economic stability, but also European freedom of movement and neighborliness. At a time when international cooperation is more important than ever, no one should isolate themselves unnecessarily.

In summary, border controls, while arguably presented as necessary measures, bring with them a number of undesirable consequences. Concerns about traffic jams and the impact on freight transport are justified and must be taken seriously by everyone involved. Finally, it remains to be hoped that the responsible actors will quickly find solutions to contain the chain reaction and demonstrate a good hand for the future of European cooperation.

For further information on the economic consequences and challenges of border traffic, visit the articles from Tagesschau and [Saloodo](https://www.saloodo.com/de/blog/eu- Grenzuebertritte/).