Security concerns linked to Russia’s war in Ukraine have prompted Sweden to bring back temporary checks at its internal borders, with the restrictions expected to remain in place for six months.
The Swedish government announced the decision on Thursday, saying its assessment points to a serious threat to public order and national security.
It said Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine had contributed to a deteriorating security environment, creating hybrid threats and allowing hostile actors to move and operate within the Schengen area.
The controls will run from November 12, 2026, to May 11, 2027, and are intended to strengthen the authorities’ ability to identify individuals who may pose security risks.
Under the arrangement, Sweden’s Police Authority will determine where and how the checks are conducted, with the measures expected to be proportionate to the security threats.
The government said the decision was taken in line with European Union rules, which allow Schengen member states to temporarily restore internal border controls when serious threats to public order or national security arise.
Sweden is not alone in taking the measure, as France, Germany, Denmark and Norway have also introduced temporary controls at parts of their internal borders amid security and migration concerns.
