Entry Bans Based on Foreign Criminal Proceedings

Abstract

The Swiss Federal Office of Police (Fedpol) has the authority to impose entry bans on foreign nationals under the Foreign Nationals and Integration Act (FNIA). Given the challenges faced by European countries, particularly in migration and counterterrorism efforts, the Schengen Information System (SIS) has become an essential tool. This system enables authorities and police within the Schengen area to exchange crucial information, including details about individuals subjected to entry bans, wanted persons, terrorism threats, violent extremism, and organized crime activities. It is widely acknowledged that certain Eastern European countries, such as Moldova, Romania, Ukraine, Russia, and Bulgaria, have a judiciary plagued by corruption. Consequently, there is a potential risk of politically influenced manipulation of international criminal proceedings. Given that many entry bans rely on foreign criminal proceedings, which could be politically motivated or subject to manipulation, it is essential to scrutinize the Fedpol's current practices critically.