Archive · 26 Jan 2026
Western Balkan Truckers Block Borders Over EU Entry Rules
Truck drivers from four Western Balkan countries are protesting by blocking border crossings.
They are upset because the EU rules say they can only stay for 90 days, but they often reach this limit quickly while transporting goods.
More than 100 drivers were sent back last year, and another 100 were told they would be sent back.
The drivers say this puts their jobs and the economy at risk.
They want the EU to let them stay longer so they can keep doing their jobs without being deported.
Truck drivers from Bosnia, Montenegro, Serbia, and North Macedonia blocked border cargo terminals on January 26, 2024.
The protest is against EU entry rules that limit their stay to 90 days in the Schengen area.
Over 100 drivers were deported in 2023, with another 100 deportations announced recently.
The blockade is disrupting a key transport corridor linking the EU with Turkey and the Middle East.
Drivers warn that the current rules threaten their jobs and the regional economy.
- Who
- Truck drivers from Bosnia, Montenegro, Serbia, and North Macedonia
- What
- Blockade of border cargo terminals in protest of EU entry rules
- When
- Began on January 26, 2024
- Where
- Major border crossings in the Western Balkans, including Gevgelija (Greece-North Macedonia border)
- Why
- To demand an extension of Schengen visit limits, as current rules lead to deportations and economic risks
- Number of deported drivers
- More than 100 in 2023, 100 announced in 2024
- Countries involved
- Bosnia, Montenegro, Serbia, North Macedonia
- Major border crossing
- Gevgelija (Greece-North Macedonia border)
- Number of affected workers
- 47,000 (represented by Bosnia’s Logistika)
- Key demand
- Extension of Schengen visit limits for truck drivers