The Schengen area of freedom, security and justice without internal frontiers is built on mutual trust and recognition. This trust means that all Schengen States are expected to implement the Schengen framework individually to the highest standards, in the interest of all Schengen States, and recognise the implementation of common rules by other States.To maintain this trust, a strong and coordinated governance system is essential. It enables Schengen States to act collectively, address common challenges, safeguard security, and protect the benefits of seamless travel for millions of citizens, residents and visitors. The governance framework represents both the capacity to prioritise common solutions over unilateral actions and the assurance that potential challenges will be addressed proactively, with a high level of preparedness.Schengen governance involves both political and operational coordination. It is based on shared rules, regular monitoring and close cooperation between national authorities and EU institutions. This approach ensures accountability, consistency and high performance across Schengen.Schengen Governance has two main pillars: the Schengen Cycle, with the Schengen Council at its heart, and the Schengen Evaluation and Monitoring Mechanism, coordinated by the European Commission. Schengen CycleThe Schengen Cycle includes several tools which allow the Schengen Council to swiftly identify key challenges and set priority actions at both national and European levels.Schengen Evaluation and MonitoringBy conducting regular on-site evaluations, the Schengen evaluation and monitoring mechanism helps identify areas for improvement.
Schengen CycleThe Schengen Cycle includes several tools which allow the Schengen Council to swiftly identify key challenges and set priority actions at both national and European levels.
Schengen Evaluation and MonitoringBy conducting regular on-site evaluations, the Schengen evaluation and monitoring mechanism helps identify areas for improvement.
