Germany is enhancing its border controls in response to what it describes as “irregular migration,” following a recent increase in suspected Islamist attacks. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser announced that these heightened controls will be implemented at all land borders starting next Monday and will remain in effect for an initial six-month period, after which they will be reviewed.
This decision follows a significant political shift: the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party, known for its anti-migration stance, won a state election in Thuringia, marking the first time a far-right party has won such a position in Germany since the Nazi era. The new regulations come ahead of a second round of emergency talks on migration policy scheduled for Tuesday in Berlin, involving the coalition government, opposition parties, and federal states.
The measures are part of Germany’s broader strategy to address migration, especially in light of recent migrant influxes from the Middle East and Africa. Faeser’s announcement, supported by Chancellor Olaf Scholz, aims to address public concerns over integration, security, and overstretched public services such as housing and education. The move is seen as an effort to regain control over a heated political debate that has significantly influenced recent state election campaigns.
Recent attacks, including a knife assault at a festival in Solingen claimed by the Islamic State and other violent incidents involving asylum seekers, have heightened agitation over immigration policies. Faeser emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening domestic security and maintaining a tough stance against irregular migration.
The new controls come amidst ongoing concerns about domestic security and migration. Last year, Germany introduced tighter border checks with Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland, and has since managed to return approximately 30,000 migrants. Asylum applications reportedly fell by 22% between January and August due to these measures.
Germany has also focused on enforcing deportation regulations more strictly and has resumed deportations of Afghan nationals despite human rights concerns. The recent high-profile return of Afghan deportees was intended to signal the government’s resolve.
The new border controls may face challenges within the EU, particularly if they lead to demands for other member states to accept a larger share of asylum seekers under the Dublin Agreement. Austria has already expressed its reluctance to accommodate migrants turned back from Germany.
Under EU legislation, Schengen Area countries can only impose border controls as a last resort to address serious internal security threats. Germany has previously introduced temporary controls during major events, such as the UEFA European Championship, and published statistics on illegal entries and contraband.
Questions remain about Germany’s ability to effectively manage its extensive borders, given concerns about personnel and resources. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges Germany faces in balancing security, migration management, and political pressures.
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