GERMAN MINISTRIES ON SCHENGEN SUSPENSION FOR WORLD

C O N F I D E N T I A L BERLIN 001389

SIPDIS

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: DECL: 05/19/2016
TAGS: PGOV PTER KHLS PINR ASEC GM EU
SUBJECT: GERMAN MINISTRIES ON SCHENGEN SUSPENSION FOR WORLD
CUP

REF: 05 BERLIN 3500 (NOTAL)

Classified By: Minister-Counselor for Economic Affairs Robert F. Cekuta
for Reasons 1.4 (b) and (d)


1. (C) While Germany has announced it would suspend Schengen
provisions and re-establish border controls if necessary
during the World Cup June 9 - July 9, the reality seems to be
the move is little beyond a legal step needed in case Germany
decides it needs some additional specific measures against
hooligans, terrorists, or criminal elements.


2. (C) Interior Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble announced at a
World Cup Security Conference hosted by his ministry March 30
that Germany would re-impose border controls due to the World
Cup. Interior Ministry staff had outlined the move in
October 2005 (reftel) and Germany appears to be carrying it
out as foreshadowed. Interior and MFA officials refer to
provisions within the several Schengen Acquis texts that
enable a Schengen country to notify other Schengen countries
and reinstate border controls; they refer to France's
reinstating of border controls at times during recent years.
The Interior Ministry announced April 24 Schaeuble had
written EU Council Secretary-General Javier Solana and all 25
EU Interior Ministers to officially notify them of the step.


3. (C) Deputy Justice Minister Lutz Diwell told EMIN May 10
that Germany could not completely re-impose border controls
and no intention to do so, even with the help Germany sought
from and will receive from its neighbors. Instead, Germany
will reserve the right to inspect anyone who intends to cross
its borders, and will do so if it believes that anyone --
particularly hooligans -- who could pose a threat intend to
enter the country. Echoing remarks first made in reftel, he
said Germany would constantly review its intelligence and
other information, including which World Cups teams are
scheduled to play and where, to determine whether or not to
impose border controls. For example, MOI officials have told
Emboffs that Germany might re-impose border controls only at
certain border crossing points with the Netherlands if the
Dutch team were to play at a venue in Germany near the Dutch
border.


4. (C) MOI Diplomatic Advisor Lothar Freischlader confided
May 19 the Schengen re-imposition was largely symbolic. The
intention was to reassure the German public that Germany was
doing everything possible to secure the World Cup, had taken
appropriate steps, and was in the position to act if threats
emerged. German officials repeatedly state they have no
information of specific threats to the World Cup, but note
the German media have begun a drumbeat of reporting on the
alleged plans of hooligans, neo-nazis, and others to use the
period of the World Cup to demonstrate, draw attention to
themselves, and possibly engage in violent acts. The Mission
World Cup Security Team members continue to monitor all
reporting for any threats to U.S. citizens, the U.S. team, or
U.S. interests.
TIMKEN JR