As the Schengen Agreement marks its 40th anniversary on 14 June, Luxembourg prepares celebratory events at the historic signing site - even as contemporary border controls challenge the very freedoms the pact established.
On 14 June 2025, the Schengen Agreement will celebrate its 40th anniversary - a milestone for what began as a pact between five nations (France, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg) and has since expanded to 29 countries.
Celebrations in Schengen will occur against a paradoxical backdrop: renewed border controls near Luxembourg that contradict the agreement's core principle of free movement.
After 12 months of preparations, Schengen municipality will unveil a series of completed projects including a renovated European Museum, a nearly completed Moselle River quay, and the fully restored original ship where the agreement was signed. The vessel, which has been repurchased and restructured by the municipality, is set to return to its original mooring next week.
At a press conference on Thursday, Tourism Minister Lex Delles noted the ship's significance as a physical landmark for visitors who frequently enquire about the agreement's signing location. The restored vessel will serve as both a commemorative piece and tourist attraction.
Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel used the occasion to warn against complacency regarding Schengen freedoms, directly criticising Germany's border controls as "actively damaging" the agreement's spirit. He argued these issues stem from inadequate EU external border management and migration policies, lamenting how easily some politicians discard hard-won achievements.
Bettel emphasised the anniversary's significance, stating: "These celebrations matter because Schengen's freedoms require constant defence." The weekend programme will blend formal commemorations with public festivities in the agreement's namesake town.
The celebrations will begin on Saturday with an official ceremony attended by the Grand Ducal Couple and international dignitaries. Following this formal event, authorities will inaugurate both the renovated museum and historic ship. The afternoon will feature musical performances building to an evening concert by Johnny Logan and the military orchestra.
Sunday's programming offers continuous concerts throughout the day, with free public access to both the museum and the historic signing vessel.
Mayor Michel Gloden confirmed enhanced transportation arrangements for the anniversary, including dedicated shuttle buses operating between Schengen and Remerschen on 14 June. Complete event details are available on the municipality's official website schengen.lu.
