Italy calls for Schengen suspension with Spain over Ceuta migrants
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Italy has called for the suspension of the Schengen border-free travel agreement with Spain following a surge in migrant arrivals at the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. Vice-Premier Matteo Salvini made the appeal, backed by fellow Deputy Premier Antonio Tajani, as Rome consults EU institutions. The move comes after EU Home Affairs Commissioner Magnus Brunner emphasized the importance of protecting the bloc's external borders.
The Call
Italian Vice-Premier Matteo Salvini has urged the government to suspend the Schengen agreement with Spain, citing the need to 'defend borders.' Deputy Premier Antonio Tajani backed the proposal, expressing confidence in Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi's handling of the matter. The call follows consultations between Italian authorities and EU institutions.
The Trigger
The move comes after a surge in migrant arrivals at the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. EU Home Affairs Commissioner Magnus Brunner recently stressed that protecting the EU's external borders is a key element in combating illegal migration. Italian government discussions intensified in response to the Ceuta situation, according to Avvenire sources.
Legal Framework
Italy could temporarily reintroduce border controls under Article 25 of the Schengen Borders Code. This provision allows member states to impose restrictions for up to 30 days in the event of a serious threat to public order or internal security, with possible extensions in exceptional circumstances. No final decision has been taken yet.
What's Next
The Italian government has yet to make a final decision, but if it proceeds, it must formally notify the European Commission, the European Parliament, and other EU member states. It remains unclear whether the suspension will be enacted and how EU institutions would respond.
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Italy calls for Schengen suspension with Spain over Ceuta migrants
