Transport associations from the Western Balkans have agreed to wait until September 1 for a meeting with the European Commission before deciding on potential protests regarding Schengen area transit.

Transport associations from Serbia, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina met in Skopje to discuss ongoing issues with Schengen zone entry rules. The groups have decided to postpone any potential protest actions until September 1, when they are scheduled to meet with representatives of the European Commission in Brussels. Representatives stated that while they prefer to avoid protests, they are prepared to take such action if their demands regarding professional driver transit are not met.

Demands for Schengen Transit Rules

The associations are calling for strict adherence to the 90-day stay rule within any 180-day period. Neđo Mandić, president of the International Transport business association in Belgrade, stated that current interpretations of these days by border officials are inconsistent. The groups are requesting that the European Commission calculate the 90-day allowance precisely by hours and minutes to ensure drivers are not unfairly restricted.

Impact on Professional Drivers

Industry leaders report that current border uncertainties are already disrupting operations, with 50 percent of drivers reportedly refusing routes due to fears of being denied entry. Biljana Muratovska of the Macedonian association Makamtrans noted that the EES border control system is causing significant job losses. Approximately 100,000 professional drivers across the Western Balkans are affected by these transit challenges.