Croatia’s admission to the Schengen Area in January 2023 has brought about a significant surge in unauthorized border crossings, marking a worrisome trend for the country and the broader Schengen community. This year alone, more than 54,000 individuals have illegally crossed Croatia’s borders, representing a staggering 140% increase compared to the previous year. Many of these individuals are seeking asylum within the European continent.
One key factor driving this surge is the knowledge among smugglers and migrants that reaching Croatia provides them with a gateway to move freely across other Schengen countries, as Schengen Area members do not impose internal border checks. Croatia’s lengthy border with neighboring Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina serves as a major entry point for migrants seeking to reach Europe.
This rise in unauthorized migration isn’t confined to Croatia alone; neighboring countries along the Balkan route, like Slovenia, have also witnessed an uptick in unauthorized arrivals. Slovenia is now contemplating stricter border controls with Croatia in response to this challenge. Additionally, some Schengen member states have reintroduced internal border controls, primarily due to the influx of illegal migrants arriving from North Africa, posing a complex issue that requires a collaborative response among Schengen nations to deter unauthorized entries into the bloc.
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