The anticipated vote on Romania’s accession to the Schengen Zone will not take place during the Justice and Home Affairs Council (JHA) meeting scheduled for December 5, according to political sources cited by News.ro. The inclusion of Bulgaria’s and Romania’s Schengen accession on the meeting agenda had raised expectations, as various entities exerted pressure to finalize their inclusion in the free movement area. Discussions during the meeting are expected to occur without a formal vote, considering the ongoing negotiations for a new government in the Netherlands.
Earlier this month, Member of the European Parliament Vlad Gheorghe had confirmed the official inclusion of RBulgaria’s and Romania’s Schengen accession in the December 5 JHA meeting. Gheorghe emphasized the significance of this opportunity for Romania, expressing hope that the pressure from the Commission, the Parliament, and other stakeholders would lead to Romania’s rightful inclusion in the European free movement area.
The provisional agenda for the JHA meeting indicates discussions on the general situation in the Schengen Zone, along with a potential debate on the Council Decision regarding the full application of Schengen provisions in Bulgaria and Romania. While discussions are expected, a formal vote may not occur, taking into account the ongoing government negotiations in the Netherlands.
There are efforts by Bucharest to arrange meeting of Extraordinary Council, aiming for a potential debate on the Council Decision concerning the full application of Schengen provisions in Romania and Bulgaria. Johannes Rauch, Austria’s Minister of Social Affairs, stated on the X platform that Romania’s entry into Schengen would benefit both countries, despite Austria’s historical opposition. He cited benefits for families that depend on caregivers as well as businesses.
The Schengen accession of Romania and Bulgaria has faced obstacles, with Austria and the Netherlands expressing concerns about irregular migration despite both countries meeting the necessary requirements. The process remains ongoing, with expectations for further developments in subsequent meetings.
