Police Union Raises Alarm Over Strain from Heightened Border Controls

The German police are facing significant strain due to intensified border controls, as highlighted by the police union, GdP. The union's leadership warns that the current operational capacity is nearing its limit, with the expectation that these measures cannot be maintained for much longer. The Federal Ministry of the Interior, however, maintains that there are no immediate plans to scale back these intensified controls.

According to GdP's Federal Police Chairman, the current approach relies heavily on adjustments to duty rosters, the suspension of training programs, and a halt to the reduction of overtime. He emphasized that the current levels of border enforcement can only be sustained for a few more weeks, noting that over 1,000 police officers are currently deployed in border areas.

Shortly after taking office, Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt initiated a strict enforcement of border controls, which now includes provisions for the rejection of asylum seekers at the border. This policy has led to a nearly 50% increase in the number of individuals turned away within a week, as reported by the minister.

A spokesperson for the Interior Ministry acknowledged the significant effort required from the Federal Police to manage these operations, yet insists that the enhanced controls are deemed necessary. The ministry also expressed confidence in the Federal Police's ability to handle extensive and prolonged situations in the past.

While the police union supports efforts to reduce irregular migration through increased border enforcement, concerns are being raised about the long-term feasibility of this approach. There is an ongoing dialogue within security circles regarding the police's ability to continue supporting various national duties, including managing football events and public demonstrations.

Critics, including the SPD's interior expert, have cautioned that the intensified border measures could jeopardize cooperation with neighboring countries on asylum reforms. They stress that successful migration management requires collaborative efforts with European partners.

Conversely, representatives from the opposition, particularly from the CDU, have argued that the border controls are effective and serve to diminish Germany's appeal as a migration destination within Europe. They assert that a more restrictive migration policy aligns with the expectations of Germany's European neighbors.