Söder Praises Implementation of Border Controls Amid Asylum Policy Shift

The new German government has intensified its approach to migration by implementing stricter border controls aimed at preventing asylum seekers from entering the country. This initiative, directed by Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt, involves the Bundespolizei (Federal Police) actively rejecting asylum applicants at the German borders. This policy shift has sparked legal debates and criticism from neighboring countries.

Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder expressed confidence that European neighbors would ultimately accept these changes, despite initial skepticism from some nations. In an interview, he emphasized the need for ongoing discussions with international partners regarding the specifics of the new policy. He highlighted Germany's unique circumstances, having accepted a significant number of migrants in recent years, even when not required to do so under European law.

Söder characterized the coalition agreement as a foundational document that mandates a tangible shift in migration policy. He indicated that the government's strategy would revert to pre-2015 norms, reinstating legal order at the German borders.

Following Dobrindt's recent directive, initial reports indicated that the Bundespolizei registered approximately 365 unauthorized entries on the first two days of the new controls, resulting in the rejection of 286 migrants, including 19 who had applied for asylum. The predominant reasons for these rejections included the absence of visas, false documents, and existing travel bans.

Under the new regulations, exceptions apply for vulnerable individuals, such as children, pregnant women, and those with health issues, enabling a few migrants to enter Germany under specific circumstances. However, the actual number of individuals who may have crossed the border undetected during this period remains uncertain. Additionally, law enforcement apprehended 14 suspected traffickers and executed 48 outstanding arrest warrants, along with detaining nine individuals linked to extremist activities.

In light of these developments, Söder has indicated that further actions against illegal immigration will follow. He mentioned plans to amend citizenship laws and halt flights from Afghanistan as part of a broader strategy. He asserted that these measures would deter individuals from embarking on the lengthy journey to Germany and would also motivate those currently in the country to leave, as the opportunities available would diminish.