A decade after more than a million people arrived in Europe, the legacy of the 2015 migration surge is visible in politics, classrooms, workplaces and communities. Though for EU Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner, sovereign control over migration policy and cooperation with third countries are key to halt a further influx of asylum seekers.
The Schengen area is the jewel in the crown of European integration, but on its 40th anniversary questions about its implementation in several countries raise concerns.
Although EU-wide statistics are not yet available, asylum applications in Germany have been falling in recent months.
The Commission aims to speed up asylum procedures in the European Union. A safe country list is one part of the measures.
The EU is ramping up its migration crackdown with new proposals to fast-track deportations and set up controversial return hubs outside its borders. While some governments push for even tougher measures, critics warn the plan could lead to human rights violations and legal battles.