B1 – Intermediate
The Schengen Agreement was initially signed by Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands 40 years ago in 1985. At present, it has 29 member countries.
The treaty was established to abolish border controls which guarantees free movement for people, goods, services, and capital.
This is one of the most important point of the European Union.
However, Germany and France have reinstated border checks recently saying it is due to problems with security and terrorism, illegal immigration, and the asylum systems.
Listen to this audio and read the transcript about the reintroduction of border controls in some European countries.
https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/eu-countries-bring-back-border-checks-level-3
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “in place” mean? “It has been in place for 40 years and is a key part of the European Union.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
- What does “go against” mean? “These actions may go against the values of unity and cooperation that the EU supports.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
- What does “bring back” mean? “However, countries like Germany and France have recently started to bring back border controls.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms or similar expressions.
Discussion Questions:
- What is your opinion about the return of internal border controls?
- What are the benefits and downsides of putting border controls again around Europe?
- Share your opinion about this, “Some experts argue that countries are using border controls for political purposes, not because of real threats.”
- What is your view on this, “The visible problem is the return of internal border checks. This raises questions about how well Schengen can function if countries no longer fully respect the agreement.”?