The Schengen Agreement, also known as the Schengen Treaty, is an agreement between 26 European countries that abolishes internal borders, allowing for the free movement of people, goods, and services between them. It was signed on June 14, 1985, in the town of Schengen, Luxembourg, which is where it gets its name.

The Schengen Area includes most of the European Union countries, except for Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Ireland, Romania, and the United Kingdom. It also includes three non-EU countries, namely Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway.

The agreement allows citizens of these countries to travel freely within the Schengen Area without a passport or visa. This means no more border checks when traveling between member states, making it easier for people to move around and work in different countries.

The Schengen Agreement also has significant implications for businesses and trade. With borders being removed, companies can move goods and services across borders without the need for complicated customs procedures and tariffs. This has helped to create a more competitive and open European market.

However, the agreement does mean that some countries have had to give up some of their sovereignty over their borders and immigration policies. While there are still some limited checks at the external borders of the Schengen Area, countries within the agreement must work together to ensure that their border controls are sufficient to prevent illegal immigration and crime.

Overall, the Schengen Agreement is an important part of European geography and has helped to create a more integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Europe. While some challenges remain, its benefits are clear and have been widely recognized by citizens, businesses, and governments across the continent.