CDU and CSU Push for Effective Stop on Refugee Admissions Ahead of 2025 Elections

In the lead-up to the federal elections scheduled for 2025, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Christian Social Union (CSU) have united in a strong stance on migration policy, advocating for a significant shift in how refugees are managed in Germany. The CDU has announced plans to implement immediate measures that would effectively halt the admission of refugees through border rejections, should they secure victory in the upcoming elections.

Thorsten Frei, the First Parliamentary Secretary of the Union's parliamentary group, indicated that this proposed 'effective stop' on refugee admissions is a strategic response to what they describe as uncontrolled migration. Frei emphasized that the party aims to replace this uncontrolled influx with a system that allows for the managed intake of a limited number of refugees.

Both parties align on several key proposals, including the CSU's call for amendments to the constitutional right to asylum and the introduction of solutions involving third countries. Frei noted that both approaches would ultimately yield similar outcomes by restoring control over migration flows and capping the number of refugees allowed into Germany.

The topic of migration has rapidly risen to prominence in the political discourse, particularly following recent tragic events, including an attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg. Friedrich Merz, the CDU leader and candidate for chancellor, had previously expressed hope that migration would not dominate the election narrative. However, the current climate has led to renewed focus on the issue.

The CDU and CSU's election platform advocates for stringent rejection policies aimed at asylum seekers who enter through other EU member states. According to existing regulations, these individuals are obligated to submit their asylum applications in the country where they first arrive. Additionally, the parties propose that asylum procedures be conducted in designated safe third countries, where asylum seekers would also receive any granted protection.

Despite already witnessing thousands of rejections at the German borders each month under the current government, implementing these proposals may prove legally complex. Current laws require that individuals seeking asylum be allowed entry to have their claims assessed.

On January 20, the CSU's leadership unanimously adopted a 'Bavarian Agenda' for the upcoming elections, which includes a tough approach to migration. Alexander Dobrindt, the head of the CSU parliamentary group and their top candidate, emphasized the need for a reduction in migrant numbers.

Among their proposals is a revision of the right to asylum, increased border rejections, a suspension of family reunifications for those granted subsidiary protection, and a strategy for Syrian nationals residing in Germany in anticipation of potential political changes in Syria. The CSU has also suggested that foreign criminals face immediate deportation after their first offense or be placed in indefinite detention pending their deportation. Furthermore, they propose that German citizenship be granted only after eight years of proven integration and a clean criminal record.