Borders Without Waiting? Yeah, Right!
Welcome to the world where the borders between Serbia and North Macedonia are finally trying to become a bearable place for travelers! Dačić and Toškovski have signed a protocol on an integrated border control system, known as “One Stop Control.” Sounds like magic, but what does it actually mean?
What is ‘One Stop Control’?
Imagine instead of being stopped twice at the border – once when leaving Serbia and again when entering North Macedonia – now it will be just ONE check! Yes, you read that right, just ONE! Police officers from one country will be authorized to perform both the exit control of their country and the entry control of the neighboring country. Say goodbye to endless lines and summer border nightmares!
Why is this important?
Summer season and holidays bring huge crowds at the borders. People stand for hours, get frustrated, waste time and nerves. This system is supposed to speed up the flow of people and goods, reduce waiting times, and make traveling more pleasant. Dačić proudly stated this is a big step forward and that there has already been a 26% reduction in illegal border crossings in the first six months of this year.
But will it really work?
The test phase has just started, and both sides expressed satisfaction and readiness to continue cooperation. The protocol also foresees police contact points in places with a large number of people, where officers will assist each other. It all sounds like a dream, but reality will show how effective this system will be.
What else should you know?
Serbia and North Macedonia have already signed an interstate agreement on this system, and now the protocol defines how the control will be conducted. Cooperation is also expanding to emergency situations, such as firefighting assistance, where Serbia has already shown readiness to help North Macedonia.
Conclusion
Is this the end of endless border waits? Maybe. Will travelers finally be able to enjoy their summer vacation without stressing at the crossings? We hope so. But, as always, time will tell how this will be implemented in practice.
What about you? Do you believe ‘One Stop Control’ will really change the game or is it just another nice story for the media? Drop a comment, let’s see who’s optimistic and who’s skeptical!
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