Deep Dive
Why did Romania and Bulgaria finally join Schengen?
Their full accession was a top priority for Hungary during its EU Council presidency, which ended their long-standing opposition to the move. Austria, the last holdout, declined to veto the decision, allowing their entry from January 2025.
When did Romania and Bulgaria become EU members?
They joined the EU in 2007 and have met Schengen requirements since 2010, but faced objections from various states over migration concerns.
What is the significance of the Schengen Zone?
It allows for free movement across borders within the EU, excluding Cyprus and Ireland, and includes non-EU states like Iceland and Switzerland. However, recent migration and crime concerns have led to reintroduced border checks, questioning the system's validity.
What conditions were set for Austria's approval of Romania and Bulgaria's Schengen entry?
Austria agreed to lift its veto on the condition that Bulgaria deploys more border guards along its frontier with Turkey.
What happened to the prisons in Syria after the fall of Assad?
The prisons, notorious for torture and killings, were opened, and families searched for their loved ones. The rebel group leader promised to keep them closed and pursue justice for those involved in the atrocities.
What is South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol's stance on martial law?
He defended his decision, stating it was necessary to prevent the collapse of democracy and counter opposition's parliamentary dictatorship. He vowed to fight to the end despite facing impeachment and corruption investigations.
What is NATO considering regarding defence spending?
NATO members are discussing raising the defence spending target to 3% of GDP by 2030, up from the current 2% target. This comes amid pressure to increase contributions for collective defence and support for Ukraine.
How many NATO members currently meet the 2% defence spending target?
23 out of 32 NATO members are expected to meet the 2% target this year, up from just 6 in 2018.
- Bulgaria and Romania's full accession to Schengen approved.
- Completion of a 14-year process.
- Austria's initial opposition and subsequent concession.
- Hungary's key role in facilitating the accession.
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