The Social Democratic Party (SPD) has criticized Poland’s announced border controls as a setback for the Schengen Area, urging for a swift end to internal border checks across Europe. Sonja Eichwede, Deputy Leader of the SPD parliamentary group, stated to the “Rheinische Post” that the move was anticipated following Germany’s implementation of internal border controls. She described it as a significant blow to the Schengen Area and the principle of free movement.
Eichwede emphasized the importance of close coordination with European partners, adding that the controls at the German border would primarily impact commuting patterns while likely having a limited effect on migration towards Poland.
While acknowledging potential effects at the border with Lithuania, the SPD politician expressed hope for a timely return to a Europe without internal border controls. She stressed the need for European unity and solidarity to facilitate the swift implementation of a common European asylum system.