Schengen evaluation: An educational experience the example of Norway

Abstract

BACKGROUND Schengen evaluation is a mechanism for assessing the compliance with Schengen rules and regulations by all participating countries. This report provides a brief introduction to the origin and framework of Schengen evaluation. Since the first mechanism was set up in 1998 all Schengen countries have been evaluated more than once. FOCUS ON LEARNING EFFECTS The study looks at Schengen evaluation as an educational experience. The aim was to analyse if evaluation has improved the quality of service, raised the level of professionalism and improved educational activities in the police or border guard service of a Schengen state. NORWAY AS AN EXAMPLE The study uses Norway as an empirical example and describes all four evaluations carried out (2000-2001, 2005, 2011-2012 and 2017). The results are analysed and given comments. METHODS The findings are based on documentation, interviews and a survey among police officers. MAIN FINDINGS The study argues that Schengen evaluation has had a very positive effect on how the police in Norway carry out Schengen external border control, conduct police cooperation within the framework of Schengen and use Schengen-related information systems and other technology in border management. It also emphasises the importance of Schengen evaluation for the development of Integrated Border Management (IBM) in Norway.