Decline in Asylum Applications Amid Increased Border Controls: Main Countries of Origin are Syria and Ukraine

Recent reports indicate a significant decrease in the number of asylum applications in Germany, coinciding with stricter border control measures. According to data from the Federal Police, unauthorized entries into Germany predominantly involve individuals from Syria, Ukraine, Afghanistan, and Turkey. In the second half of 2024, Syrian citizens accounted for 20.6% of those attempting to enter the country unlawfully, while nearly 20% were Ukrainian nationals. Ukrainian citizens are not required to apply for asylum to gain entry and protection in Germany or other EU countries, following an agreement among EU member states after the onset of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, this does not automatically grant entry to every Ukrainian national. The German government clarifies that those who have lived abroad for extended periods and are not endangered by the conflict in Ukraine do not qualify for protection. Furthermore, relocation for other reasons without the necessary visa for long-term residence is not permitted under current regulations. The number of unauthorized entries has dropped from 127,549 in 2023 to 83,572 in the previous year. Additionally, the proportion of individuals expressing a desire to apply for asylum upon unauthorized entry has also diminished significantly. Less than 25% of those entering without permission indicated plans to seek asylum in Germany last year, a decrease from 44.7% in 2023. The Left Party has raised concerns about this trend, suggesting that political pressures may lead to fewer asylum applications being recorded by the Federal Police during border checks, thereby facilitating immediate returns of individuals. In response, the Ministry of the Interior has rejected these allegations, emphasizing that the Federal Police is already actively repatriating many individuals, including potential asylum seekers. Since mid-September 2024, stationary border controls have been implemented at all German land borders, a measure not typically permitted within the Schengen Area and allowed only temporarily. These controls result in the return of individuals who fail to apply for asylum or who are subject to entry bans. In summary, the latest developments highlight a notable shift in migration patterns and asylum-seeking behavior in Germany, driven by both international conflict and domestic policy changes. The ongoing discussions surrounding border control and immigration policy continue to shape the political landscape as the country navigates these complex issues.