Italy has extended border controls with Slovenia for another six months to prevent potential terrorist infiltration along the Balkan route ahead of the Catholic Church’s Jubilee year in 2025.
Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi emphasized the need for security due to instability in international affairs and the risk of extremists entering through migration flows.
The controls, which began in October 2023 following the Hamas attack in Israel, aim to minimize disruption for citizens while ensuring safety. The measures also coincide with cultural and religious events, including Gorizia and Nova Gorica serving as European Capitals of Culture in 2025.
Italy’s decision aligns with similar actions by Germany, the Netherlands, and other European countries to strengthen border security. Piantedosi highlighted a 51% drop in irregular entries over the past year, underscoring the effectiveness of the controls.
