Following the success of the previous episodes of the ‘Beyond Borders: Breakfast Debate’, the next edition will take place on 16 April 2026, and will focus on the revised Schengen Borders Code and its specific relevance for EU border regions.
Beyond Borders: Breakfast Debate. “Schengen Code revision: the implications for EU Border Regions”. EVENT DATE: Thu, 16/04/2026 – 10:00 – Thu, 16/04/2026 – 11:00. REGISTER NOW
The session aims to raise awareness of the safeguards and procedural considerations applicable when temporary internal border controls are reintroduced, particularly in cross-border regions identified by Member States.
Follow the Border Focal Point Network initiatives on https://futurium.ec.europa.eu/en/border-focal-point-network
The revised Schengen Borders Code (Reg 2024/1717) mandates that temporary internal border controls must now include a “cross-border impact assessment” to mitigate effects on border regions. While aimed at protecting cross-border communities, the revision requires Member States to map cross-border regions and often highlights asymmetrical impacts, as controls severely hinder daily life, work, and goods transport for neighboring regions.
The debate on April 16, 2026, will explore how to better implement these safeguards and protect cross-border communities.
The Border Focal Point Network is delighted to welcome the following speakers:
- Simona Pohlová, Acting Head of Unit, DG REGIO – Interreg, Cross-border Cooperation, Internal Borders
- Jorrit Rijpma, European Commission, DG HOME
- Pim Mertens, Scientific Coordinator at Expertise Centre ITEM at Maastricht University
- [Moderator] Andrew Lansley, Member of the UK House of Lords & LOW Associates Strategic Counsel
The event will be held online on Zoom. Further information will be available closer to the event. If you would like to see any issues raised during the event, please feel free to send us an email at borders@loweurope.eu
