The EU has announced another delay for the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) launch. Authorities initially set the launch for November 10, however, the rollout faces several setbacks yet again. The EES aims to improve border security and streamline the tracking of non-EU nationals entering and exiting the Schengen Area.
The EES design will replace passport stamping with a digital system that records entry and exit data. It will store biometric data, including fingerprints and facial images. The goal is to improve security and efficiency at borders. The system covers travelers from non-EU countries, including the United Kingdom. It covers both short-stay visa holders and visa-exempt travelers.
The EU entry/exit system launch has been postponed multiple times since its original launch schedule in 2022. The EU attributed the initial delays to technical challenges and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Why the EU Entry/Exit System launch is delayed
The apprehension of EU countries France, Germany, and the Netherlands was a key contributor to the delay. These countries, major hubs in the EU, have reported that their border computer systems were not yet ready. A spokesperson of the German government remarked that the EES central system did not meet the appropriate stability and functionality.
Additionally, the complexity of integrating biometric systems and ensuring data protection has posed significant challenges. These issues have necessitated further postponement to ensure a smooth and effective EU entry/exit system rollout.
EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson and other officials expressed concerns over the readiness of member states. Speaking at an EU interior ministers’ meeting, Johansson remarked, “10 November is no longer on the table.”
“I hope we can start as soon as possible but there’s no new timeline so far,” she added. “This also depends on the legal assessment that we will do and we’re working on it right now.” She also noted that there were concerns over the “resilience of the system.”
This is not the first instance of delays with the EU entry/exit system. In 2023, EU-LISA, which manages large-scale IT systems, confirmed a launch was no longer possible due to delays from contractors. At that time, the EU worked on a new timetable to for the EES introduction.
Need for a new border security framework
The delay impacts travelers, potentially causing confusion and longer wait times at border crossings. Travelers will continue to rely on the traditional passport-stamping method until the EES is implemented.
Johansson has recommended the adoption of a phased approach, rather than an all-encompassing launch for all EU countries. This strategy allows for gradual integration and testing of biometric systems, ensuring they function correctly before full deployment.
Moreover, the approach aims to minimize disruptions and provide time for border authorities to adapt. EU officials believe this method will lead to a more robust and effective system. The ultimate goal remains to enhance border security and streamline travel across the Schengen Area.
Overall, the delay of the EU Entry/Exit System highlights the complexities of implementing a new border security framework. While travelers may experience temporary inconveniences, the phased approach aims to ensure a smooth and efficient transition.
Photo by Frederic Köberl on Unsplash
