The checks began at the borders with France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg and Denmark before dawn Monday.

Germany’s decision to reinstate border controls without consulting its neighbours is a dangerous step backwards for the European Union. It undermines the essence of European unity at a time when it is most needed. As asylum-seekers continue to arrive, Europe is fracturing under the pressure.

Former European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker has voiced opposition to Germany's imminent increase in border controls, warning of the inconvenience posed to commuters and the potential threat to European integration.

Germany has temporarily reinstated border controls on its western and northern frontiers to tackle irregular migration and cross-border crime. The six