Germany is considering implementing border controls prior to Euro 2024.
Key Points
- Germany aims to implement temporary border controls during Euro 2024 to enhance national security.
- The measure is intended to prevent the entry of potential violent offenders into the country.
- Discussions include the possibility of initiating border controls two weeks before the event and lifting them a week after its conclusion.
Germany is preparing to introduce temporary border controls during Euro 2024 to safeguard national security. German Federal Minister of Interior, Nancy Faeser, revealed that authorities are deliberating on implementing these controls prior to the tournament. The primary objective is to prevent the entry of individuals deemed risky.
Minister Faeser emphasized the consideration of temporary border controls at internal borders during the tournament to thwart potential threats. However, she did not specify whether travelers should anticipate longer wait times at border crossings.
Euro 2024 is scheduled to take place from June 14 to July 14 across various host cities in Germany. The Federal Police has proposed extending border controls, recommending their initiation two weeks before the event commences and cessation a week after its conclusion. This suggests a proposed timeline of border controls from June 1 to July 21, 2024.
This extended duration of border controls aligns with heightened concerns about terrorist threats, including potential cyberattacks by pro-Russia hackers. Authorities fear such attacks could target airports, public institutions, and the digital systems supporting Euro 2024, potentially disrupting stadium entry systems.
With an estimated 2.5 million football enthusiasts expected to converge in Berlin alone for Euro 2024, Senator for Sports Iris Spranger anticipates a surge in visitor spending, particularly in sectors like hospitality. Visitors are reminded to fulfill necessary requirements, including obtaining visas for citizens of third countries without visa-free agreements with the EU, securing accommodations in advance, and ensuring sufficient funds for their stay.