The ability to respond swiftly and effectively to external threats is of paramount importance. However, the movement of military forces across Europe often encounters bureaucratic obstacles and logistical barriers that hinder rapid reaction capabilities. This raises a pressing question: is it time for a “Military Schengen” that ensures seamless military mobility within the EU?

The concept of military mobility, sometimes referred as the “Schengen of Defence,” is not new but has gained renewed urgency due to the war in Ukraine, increasing hybrid threats, and growing instability at the EU’s borders. As the EU and NATO intensify cooperation, achieving a high level of readiness and interoperability depends significantly on the ability to deploy forces swiftly and efficiently across Member States.

The EU has recognized these challenges and is working to address them through its Military Mobility Action Plans. These initiatives, developed in close cooperation with NATO, aim to streamline military movement across Europe by – just to name a few – reducing bureaucratic barriers, upgrading transport infrastructure to accommodate heavy military vehicles, adopting a dual-use approach that benefits both civilian and military sectors.

The idea of a “Military Schengen” takes the principles of the Schengen Area—free movement and harmonized procedures—and applies them to military forces. Such a framework would enable troops and equipment to move across Member States without the delays caused by national restrictions. Such a development will have numerous advantages as it will enhance readiness, further strengthen EU-NATO cooperation, reduce vulnerabilities and boost the EU’s credibility that it remains committed to its Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP).

To conclude, by addressing regulatory and infrastructural challenges through coordinated EU action, military mobility can become a cornerstone of a stronger European Defence Union. EUROMIL, as the umbrella organization representing European military personnel, emphasizes that enhanced military mobility enables armed forces to respond swiftly to crises, reducing delays that could compromise operations and endanger the safety of personnel. A Military Schengen would simplify procedures, and significantly improve working conditions for military personnel during deployments. By ensuring smoother, more efficient movements, EUROMIL believes it will not only strengthen the operational capabilities of the EU’s armed forces but also the rights, dignity, and wellbeing of the personnel who serve.