Estonia’s programme for Financial Support for the development of a “smart border” has gained €2 million of funding from the European Commission.
Estonia, on the most Eastern border of the EU, has responsibility for the accurate knowledge of border traffic through the Schengen Area to continue the freedom policy of this area encompassing 29 European countries that have abolished border controls at their mutual borders.
The funding increase will enable Estonia to invest in new IT infrastructure protecting the security and freedoms of travellers passing through the Schengen Area, and maintain its controlled openness for people and goods the area is known for.
Minister of the Interior Lauri Läänemets emphasised the difference this has to boost competition of economies and prosperity.
The financial support of the BMVI programme has grown to over €53 million, of which €2 million will be allocated to the implementation of the ‘Smart Borders’ system across Europe.
Necessary data processed from third-country nationals for the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will be utilised for border management, visa processing and to fight terrorism. The systems will not process the data of Estonian and EU citizens and residents, which will be projects undertaken separately by Estonian Police and Border Guard Board.
Previously, BMVI funding has secured Estonia drones, land and water vehicles and other modern surveillance technology at its external borders, which also draw from the fund for maintenance.
The support of the EU ensured the external border around Estonia is protected with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring smoother flows of travellers entering and exiting the Schengen Area.
