The Schengen Agreement, signed in 1985 in Schengen, Luxembourg, is an agreement between several European countries to eliminate border controls between them and allow for the free movement of people and goods. Although the agreement has been updated and expanded upon over the years, it remains an important milestone in the history of European integration.

So, who exactly signed the Schengen Agreement?

The original signatories of the Schengen Agreement were five countries: France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. These countries had already been working together through the European Economic Community (EEC), a precursor to the European Union, and saw the elimination of internal borders as a logical next step in their cooperation.

Over the years, more countries have joined the Schengen Area, which now includes 26 countries. These countries include most of the European Union member states, as well as Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

To become a member of the Schengen Area, a country must meet certain criteria, including having secure borders and a functioning asylum system. Croatia, Bulgaria, and Romania are currently in the process of joining the Schengen Area, but have not yet been admitted.

It`s worth noting that not all European Union member states are part of the Schengen Area. The United Kingdom and Ireland opted out of the agreement, and Cyprus, Romania, and Bulgaria are not yet part of the zone.

Although the Schengen Agreement has faced some challenges over the years, including the refugee crisis of 2015, most of the member countries remain committed to the principles of free movement and open borders. The agreement has also inspired similar initiatives in other parts of the world, including the African Union`s Free Movement Protocol and the Caribbean Community`s Caricom Single Market and Economy.

In conclusion, the original signatories of the Schengen Agreement were France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. The agreement has since expanded to include 26 countries, most of which are European Union member states. While not all EU countries are part of the Schengen Area, the agreement remains an important symbol of European integration and cooperation.