Controversial Migration Promises
Friedrich Merz, the leader of Germany’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU), has sparked controversy with his commitment to enforce strict border controls if he becomes chancellor after the upcoming election. Following a tragic knife attack allegedly perpetrated by a rejected asylum seeker, Merz unveiled a stringent five-point migration plan that includes a “de facto entry ban” for individuals lacking valid documentation and enhanced control over Germany’s borders.
Justifying Stricter Measures
Merz’s announcement came shortly after a violent incident in Aschaffenburg, Bavaria, which resulted in the deaths of two individuals, including a child. The accused, a 28-year-old Afghan national with a troubling psychiatric history, had reportedly expressed intentions to leave Germany. Many politicians quickly criticized Merz’s proposals, arguing that they clash with existing migration laws and international agreements, notably those aligned with the Geneva Convention and the European Union’s free movement protocols.
Calls for Unified European Policy
Several political leaders, including the Green party’s deputy leader, Konstantin von Notz, dismissed Merz’s plan as unconstitutional and incompatible with European standards. Saarland’s premier, Anke Rehlinger, advocated for a more unified European approach to migration that aligns with broader EU policies. Additionally, the largest police trade union in Germany voiced concerns over the feasibility of implementing permanent border checks across the country’s extensive 3,800-kilometer internal borders, suggesting alternative methods such as license plate recognition technology.
Merz’s Determination and Election Dynamics
Despite pushback from various quarters, Merz has made it clear that introducing his migration strategy would be a non-negotiable condition for forming a coalition government after the election. He intends to present this plan for parliamentary vote before the election date, set for February 23rd. While he has distanced himself from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), he acknowledges their support for his proposals, suggesting a potential alliance for legislative success.
Growing Pressure Amid Public Sentiment
The current SPD-led government has already implemented some temporary border controls, and Interior Minister Nancy Faeser slammed Merz’s proposals as opportunistic electioneering. As public concern over migration intensifies—especially following recent violent events linked to immigrants—mainstream political parties find themselves navigating increasing pressure to adopt stricter migration policies to counter rising support for the anti-immigration AfD. Reports indicate that in 2023, the number of asylum applications in Germany decreased by 30%, but challenges remain as the government continues working on deportations and managing irregular migration issues.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Reuters
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