DISINFO: Closing EU borders is in conflict with Schengen Agreement
SUMMARY
Coronavirus may lead to the disintegration of the unity of an entire continent, especially after several countries in the EU closed their borders during the last few days as a precautionary measure, which contradicts the European Schengen agreement.
RESPONSE
Recurring pro-Kremlin disinformation narrative about the imminent collapse of the EU.
The temporary closing of borders does not contradict the Schengen Agreement. According to the Schengen border code:
Where there is a serious threat to public policy or internal security, these countries may exceptionally reintroduce border controls at its internal borders for a period of no more than 30 days (possible to prolong under conditions established by the code) or for the foreseeable duration of the serious threat. This action should be seen as a last resort. If such controls are to be reintroduced, the other EU countries that are part of the Schengen Area and the European Commission must be notified without delay with a view to possible consultations. The European Parliament and the Council must be informed at the same time.
There is no basis to claim that after the pandemic is contained the borders would not be opened.
See further debunk by the Insider.
More on EU repsonse to the COVID-19 outbreak here