Justice, freedom and security: enlargement
The area of freedom, security and justice is part of the Community acquis. In this respect, the countries applying for membership of the European Union (EU) must adopt and implement the measures necessary to align with the body of laws and practices of the EU. The fields concerned include border management, civil justice and combating drugs, organised crime and money laundering.
EU accession also implies acceptance of the entire Schengen acquis. EU membership does not though entail an automatic lifting of controls at the internal borders with the other members of the Schengen area. A specific decision must be adopted by the Council once the conditions for lifting controls have been met.