Schengenmaat

Schengenmaat is a term that emerged in discussions surrounding the Schengen Area, a zone of 27 European countries that have abolished passport and all other types of border control at their mutual borders. The term itself is a portmanteau of "Schengen" and "maat," which can be translated as "measure" or "step" in Dutch. It refers to a hypothetical or proposed policy or set of actions designed to strengthen or adapt the Schengen system, particularly in response to challenges such as irregular migration, security threats, or the need for greater coordination among member states.

Discussions around Schengenmaat often revolve around balancing the principles of free movement within the area with the need for effective external border management and internal security. Proposals might include enhanced cooperation between national police forces, the development of common asylum policies, or the implementation of new technological systems for border surveillance and information sharing. The term is not an official designation but rather a descriptor used in political and public discourse to encapsulate ideas for the evolution or reform of the Schengen Area's governance and operational framework. The specific implications of a Schengenmaat can vary widely depending on the context in which the term is used, reflecting the ongoing debate about the future direction of European integration and border control.