It has been described as a hard knock for the idea on Europe without borders. After pressure from right wing populists Denmark has reintroduced controls on its German border.The measure is aimed primarily at travelers from Eastern Europe. The reason given for the controls is the need to combat rising criminality. But critics say that is just an excuse and the measure is aimed at keeping foreigners out of Denmark. The countries of the Schengen area in Europe are supposed to guarantee unhindered border traffic. Denmark joined the group ten years ago. Back then most of the border control infrastructure was dismantled. In future Denmark plans to use automatic scanners to check car number plates.