This measure follows the ongoing deterioration of the security situation in the Middle East, which has led to an increased threat of terrorism in the region. The government emphasised that the continuation of these controls is essential to ensure the safety and security of all residents.
“The police will continue to manage the border crossings with Croatia and Hungary in a way that minimises the impact on the flow of passengers, the environment, and the economy,” the Slovenian government’s communications office stated. “Our aim is to ensure a high level of security for all residents, while having as little impact as possible on the daily life of the population along the border.”
The Slovenian government highlighted that these are temporary measures, introduced in response to a specific and increased threat level. Despite the inconvenience, officials underline the necessity of these controls to maintain national security and protect residents from potential terrorist activities.
Map credits @ the Slovenian government
Broader EU border control measures
Other European countries have similarly extended their border controls in response to security threats and migration pressures:
- Austria has extended border controls with the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Hungary until 11 May 2025. This move comes in light of high levels of illegal migration, increased smuggling activity, and strains on the asylum reception system, as well as security risks from geopolitical developments in Ukraine and the Middle East.
- Germany has extended its border controls with Austria from 12 November 2024 until 11 May 2025, citing risks associated with illegal migration and pressures on public order and security.
- Denmark has intensified police efforts at borders with Sweden and Germany, including random vehicle and traveller checks, following recent terrorist incidents and other security threats. These measures are set to continue until 11 May 2025.
- Sweden has extended its border controls at all internal borders—land, air, and sea—until 11 May 2025, due to serious threats to public order and internal security from recent terrorist events and organised crime.
- France has extended its border controls within the Schengen area until 30 April 2025, due to threats from terrorist activities, illegal migration, and violence among migrants in northern coastal areas.
- Italy extended border controls with Slovenia until June 2025.
- Malta: From 1 December 2024 to 6 December 2024, Malta has implemented border controls to ensure public order and security surrounding the 31st Ministerial Council of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). This applies to all internal borders (air and sea).
- The Netherlands: From 9 December 2024 to 8 June 2025, the Netherlands has border controls due to high levels of irregular migration, migrant smuggling, and substantial secondary migration flows. This applies to land and air borders with Belgium and Germany.
- Norway: From 12 November 2024 to 11 May 2025, Norway has implemented border controls in response to general threats aimed at the energy sector and threats of sabotage posed by the Russian intelligence service. This applies to ports with ferry connections to the Schengen area, and all internal borders (land, air, and sea).