Loosened border restrictions in Romania and Bulgaria

The European Union (EU), established after the Second World War, was created with the goal of preventing future wars in Europe. Today, the EU consists of 27 countries, including Bulgaria and Romania, both located in Southeast Europe.

Bulgaria, a European country and a member of the EU, no longer controls the borders with Schengen countries Greece and Hungary. Similarly, Romania, the capital of which is Bucharest, has relinquished control over its border with Hungary. These changes are part of the Schengen Agreement, a treaty between multiple European countries that allows for free travel between them, with border controls only in exceptional cases.

Over time, more countries have joined the EU, and Romania and Bulgaria are now full members of the Schengen Area, set to take effect from January 1, 2025. However, not all Schengen countries are following suit. Germany, for instance, has reinstated intensified border controls due to increased migration and asylum challenges. This decision has been prompted by a 45 percent rise in asylum rejections and related security concerns.

The population of Bulgaria is approximately equivalent to that of the German federal state of Lower Saxony. Most people in Romania speak Romanian, and in some regions, German is also spoken. Despite being one of the poorest countries in Europe, Romania is a significant part of the EU.

The majority of EU politicians work in Brussels, Belgium, the heart of the EU. Germany, another key player in the EU, is also a member of the union. The EU has the power to make laws that apply in all member countries, fostering unity and cooperation among its diverse members.

The border changes have brought about benefits for truck drivers, as they no longer have to wait many hours for controls. This streamlining of travel is a testament to the EU's commitment to facilitating free movement and trade among its member states.

The capital of Bulgaria, though not explicitly stated in the text, is Sofia. Bulgaria, like its fellow EU member Romania, is an integral part of the European Union, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry and economic growth.