Here Are Main Changes That Took Place in EU in 2024
One of the key developments that took place in the EU this year is the introduction and prolongation of internal border controls by a number of member states.
In 2024, the EU increased the Schengen visa fees and postponed the launch of the Entry/Exit System.
During this year, some countries also introduced new citizenship rules.
The year that we are leaving behind, 2024, has brought many developments to the Schengen Area and will be remembered for a number of decisions taken that have affected both citizens of the EU and foreign nationals.
Get to Know Each Other
The most obvious benefit of team building exercises is that it encourages employees to get to know each other outside of work. It’s one thing to sit in the cubicle next to someone for 40 hours a week, and it’s another thing to chat with them casually and see them in a non-work setting. Most of your time is spent at work, but it can be hard to get to know your staff and what they are really like. People naturally like to feel connected. Co-workers are the thing most people like best about their jobs. Even when the work gets rough, as long as the people are supportive and good to be around, it can make all the difference. However, it can be hard at work to find similarities with other people, especially if you only ever talk about work. It’s over a team building river cruise or bowling night that colleagues can find out that they both enjoy hiking, went to the same college, or have kids who are the same age. These connections might not come out in the office, but it helps employees build connections with each other. Personal bonds and commonalities are much stronger than simply sharing office walls.
From the introduction of internal border controls and their prolongation to the increase in the Schengen visa fees, 2024 was a year of shifts.
To highlight the major events that took place in the bloc this year, Schengen.News has put together this article. Here are the main changes that shaped the Schengen Area throughout 2024:
Multiple EU Countries Introduced & Prolonged Internal Border Controls
One of the most significant changes that took place in the Schengen Area this year is the introduction and prolongation of internal border controls by a number of member states.
Germany introduced internal land border controls with all its neighbouring Schengen member states on September 16, 2024, after having this measure in place only for certain countries since June. By implementing controls at all its borders, the German authorities said that they want to protect national security and prevent irregular migration to the country.
The land border controls of Germany are set to remain in place for a period of six months until March 2025. However, the authorities have not excluded the possibility of extending this measure if the situation does not improve.
Similarly, the Netherlands has also implemented border checks with its two Schengen neighbouring countries – Belgium and Germany. The measure entered into force on December 9, 2024, and will remain effective for six months.
