Drivers from transport companies in North Macedonia, Serbia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina are continuing their blockade of freight border crossings with the European Union on January 27.
After blocking exit lanes a day earlier, transporters have now also blocked entry points at Western Balkan border crossings with the EU, significantly disrupting the movement of goods.
Protest Over Stricter Schengen Procedures
Drivers say the blockades are a response to the tightening of procedures for entering the Schengen Area, which they claim have become more complex and could reduce the amount of time they are allowed to stay in EU countries.
Transport operators are demanding that their permitted stay in the EU be extended to four months, instead of the current three months, within a six-month period.
Transport companies have warned that the blockades will last for seven days, unless a solution is reached with European authorities.
European Commission Responds
On January 26, European Commission spokesperson Markus Lammert said that EU institutions are exploring options to allow workers in certain professions — including truck drivers — to stay longer in the Schengen Area than currently permitted.
“We are aware that a number of third-country workers who are not cross-border workers may need to remain in the Schengen Area for more than 90 days within a 180-day period. This includes high-mobility professions, such as truck drivers, as well as athletes and artists,” Lammert said.
According to him, the European Union is closely monitoring the situation, is aware of the concerns raised by transport operators, and remains in contact with Western Balkan partners.
What Is the EES System?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a digital border management system introduced at the external borders of the Schengen Area. It began gradual implementation on October 12, 2025, and is expected to be fully operational by April 10, 2026.
Under the so-called “90/180-day rule,” transport drivers from non-Schengen countries are allowed to stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period.
Meta Description (Yoast-friendly): Transport companies from the Western Balkans continue blocking EU border crossings, protesting stricter Schengen entry rules and the new EES system.
