Sisärajat

Sisärajat, literally internal borders, is a term used to describe borders that separate territorial units within a political entity. In Finnish contexts the phrase is commonly applied to borders between states or regions, and in international and European discussions it often refers to borders between Schengen member states where routine border checks are normally not conducted.

In the European Union and the Schengen Area, internal border controls have largely been abolished to facilitate free movement of people and goods. The concept remains relevant because states may temporarily reintroduce border checks at internal borders in response to crises or threats to public policy or security. Such reintroductions are governed by EU law, typically limited in duration and scope, and require coordination among member states and, in some cases, oversight by EU institutions.

Within Finland, internal borders with neighboring states—such as Sweden and Norway—are usually without routine controls, reflecting its Schengen membership. The term is frequently invoked in public debates about border policy, migration management, and national security, particularly during exceptional situations such as security incidents, large influxes of people, or health emergencies.

Legal and policy frameworks central to Sisärajat include the Schengen Borders Code and related EU instruments, which distinguish between external borders, where controls are maintained, and internal borders, where temporary controls may be reintroduced under specific conditions. The concept highlights the balancing act between freedom of movement, security, and cross-border cooperation.