Reintroduced temporary internal border controls

In addition to the human suffering caused by the war, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has created an extremely serious security situation in Europe. Since the Russian mobilisation order, a large number of Russian nationals have left the country and made their way to the EU. The risk of arms smugg­ling and human trafficking by criminal networks exploiting the war is elevated. In addition, an increased number of migrants are coming to the EU and the Schengen area via the EU Member States that border the Western Balkans. This has placed serious strain on those Member States’ reception systems, increasing the risk of large groups moving on within the EU and the Schengen area.

Overall, the Government considers that there is a serious threat to public order and internal security, and that closer controls of those trying to enter Sweden are therefore necessary. Border controls at the internal borders are the only measure available to tackle this threat.

The decision was taken in accord­ance with EU legislation and is based on the Government’s assessment that there is still a serious threat to public order and internal security in Sweden.

Several other Schengen countries, including Germany, Austria, Norway and Denmark, have also temporarily reintroduced internal border controls and, like Sweden, have stated that they intend to continue with the controls as long as a serious threat to public order and internal security remains.

As previously, the Swedish Police Authority decides where and how border controls are conducted. The controls will be adapted to what is necessary to safeguard public order and internal security.