Exploring the Future of Schengen Membership: When Can Croatia, Romania and Other Territories Join?

Introduction

As the Schengen region continues to expand, many countries are eager to become part of this free movement area. The regions' open borders and visa-free passage make it an attractive proposition for many nations. This article delves into the potential for countries such as Croatia, Romania, and Bulgaria to become members of the Schengen region. We also explore the possibility of other territories like Gibraltar and Iceland joining, as well as the hypothetical scenario of Scotland leaving the UK and seeking Schengen membership as an independent state.

Current Membership and Future Prospects

The Schengen region comprises 26 European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) member states. These countries have abolished passport and other forms of border control at their mutual borders, creating a zone without internal borders. The rest of the EU and EEA members, as well as a few associated states, are part of the passport-free Schengen Area.

The most likely candidate for joining the Schengen region in the foreseeable future is Croatia. Since gaining full EU membership in 2013, Croatia has made significant progress in meeting the necessary criteria for Schengen membership. The country has implemented the necessary measures to ensure the security and smooth functioning of its borders, and its citizens have been able to take advantage of the free movement benefits within the EU. With the support of the EU and neighboring countries, Croatia is well-positioned to join the Schengen area at some point in the future.

Romania, another candidate, is also making strides towards Schengen membership. Romania joined the EU in 2007 and has been working on improving its border security and infrastructure. The country has shown a commitment to addressing the concerns of other Schengen member states regarding visa-free travel. However, Romania still needs to make some additional improvements to meet the full requirements for Schengen membership. Bulgaria, also a member of the EU, is in a similar position, with ongoing efforts to meet the necessary conditions.

Unlikely Candidates with Possible Scenarios

While the above-mentioned countries are the most likely candidates, there are also some territories that may join the Schengen region under certain circumstances, such as Gibraltar. Gibraltar is a self-governing British Overseas Territory that has historically maintained its own distinct relationship with the EU. Given its location on the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar shares a border with Spain and has a population that predominantly holds British and Spanish citizenship. The country could pose some challenges due to its unique status, but it is not impossible to imagine a scenario where Gibraltar could seek Schengen membership under specific conditions.

Another territory with a potential future in the Schengen region is Iceland. Iceland is not part of the EU, but it is part of the European Economic Area (EEA), which gives it a special status similar to that of Norway and Liechtenstein. If Iceland were to seek to join the Schengen region, it would need to meet the necessary criteria, including ensuring the security of its borders and cooperation with other Schengen member states. While this is currently a lower probability, the possibility cannot be entirely ruled out, especially if the political climate changes.

Hypothetical Scenarios

There is also a hypothetical scenario to consider: what if Scotland were to become an independent country and seek Schengen membership? Scotland, with a population of around 5 million people, has been a leading force in the independence movement for years. If Scotland were to become independent, it could seek to join the Schengen region as a sovereign state. However, this would entail significant changes to border controls and governance, and it would require the approval and support of other Schengen member states.

Conclusion

As we look to the future, it is clear that the Schengen region will continue to be a dynamic and evolving area. While Croatia, Romania, and Bulgaria are the most likely candidates for becoming part of the Schengen region, there are other territories that may join under certain circumstances. Gibraltar and Iceland present unique situations that may become more realistic in the future, and the independence of Scotland could lead to a significant change in the Schengen landscape. It will be interesting to see how these scenarios unfold, and how the Schengen region adapts to new challenges and opportunities.