Germany’s border checks with Luxembourg may lead to a serious conflict within the European Union. Luxembourg’s government warns that if Germany keeps the checks past March, they will take the matter to the EU Commission.

Preparing to oppose border checks

Luxembourg plans to oppose Germany’s border checks if they continue past mid-March. Home Affairs Minister Léon Gloden called the checks “absurd” and said that his government will bring the issue to the European Commission if they stay in place.

Germany started the checks in September to reduce irregular migration. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser defended the move, arguing that it helps prevent unauthorized entry.

However, Luxembourg argued that the checks violate the Schengen Agreement, which guarantees free movement within participating European countries.

Delays on cross-border workers

Luxembourg depends on cross-border workers, including nearly 55,000 commuters from Germany. 

Gloden highlighted that these workers are frustrated because border checks have added up to two hours to their daily travel time. He also noted that officials in Saarland and Rhineland oppose the checks.

“Traffic jams caused by these checks are unacceptable,” Gloden said. “The controls create unnecessary hardship for workers who rely on smooth travel between the two countries.”

Backlash over policy

Germany’s political climate complicates the issue. Friedrich Merz, the frontrunner in the upcoming election, has promised to make border checks permanent if he becomes chancellor. His statement has faced criticism, especially from Luxembourg and other Schengen countries.

Public reaction to migration policies has been strong. Mass protests broke out in cities like Munich, Hamburg, Cologne, and Leipzig after the government passed a stricter immigration law.

Critics accused Merz’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) of breaking an unwritten rule by working with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) on migration policies.

EU’s role in the dispute

Luxembourg’s Prime Minister Luc Frieden recently spoke with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen about the border checks. He stressed the need to uphold Schengen rules, which are vital to Luxembourg’s economy.

The government aims to gather support within the EU to challenge Germany’s stance.  

Gloden argued that tackling illegal migration should focus on securing the EU’s external borders instead of adding internal restrictions. He pointed out that Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, is the right tool for managing migration at the EU level.

Less convenient cross-border trips

Extending Germany’s border checks could impact tourists, business travelers, and migrants entering the EU.

Visitors may face delays, making cross-border travel less convenient. For migrants, stricter controls could complicate legal entry and residency, raising concerns about EU regulation compliance.

These checks also coincide with the upcoming launch of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), which will require visa-exempt travelers to get pre-travel approval. 

Continued border controls may lead to stricter enforcement of Schengen visa rules, affecting those seeking work or asylum in the EU.

A precedent for migration policy

Germany’s border controls could set a precedent for how EU countries manage migration and security.

If Berlin makes them permanent, other nations may follow, risking a divided Schengen Area. Countries with stricter migration policies might adopt similar checks, challenging the EU’s commitment to free movement.  

The issue has fueled wider debates on immigration policy, especially in Germany. Critics argue that these measures put national security ahead of humanitarian obligations, affecting asylum seekers and legal migrants.

As the EU deals with migration challenges, the response to Germany’s actions could shape future border security and free movement policies.

Luxembourg’s security measures, refugee policy

Luxembourg opposes internal border checks but has also tightened its domestic security policies. 

Gloden introduced the “4P concept,” a crime prevention plan that increases police presence, strengthens judicial forces, and upgrades equipment. The government has also adopted stricter refugee policies, stating that only those willing to integrate should be allowed to stay.  

Gloden defended these policies against criticism from civil society groups. He responded to the resignation of aid worker Marianne Donven, who accused the government of having an inhumane refugee strategy.

“People who meet the conditions and want to integrate are welcome. If not, they must return to their country of origin,” he said.

What happens next?

The next few months will be key in deciding whether Luxembourg’s opposition to border checks gains support.

If Germany extends the controls in April, Luxembourg will take the issue to the European Commission. Germany’s election results could also influence future border policies in the Schengen Area.  

Luxembourg insists on protecting cross-border travel, arguing that Germany’s actions hurt the economy and weaken European unity. As debates continue, the EU will face pressure to clarify the rules on internal border checks.