Surge in Asylum Appeals Signals Potential Delays in Processing Times

The number of asylum appeals filed in administrative courts has seen a significant uptick, with over 100,000 new cases registered in 2024. This figure represents an increase of nearly two-thirds compared to the numbers from 2022, raising concerns about potential delays in the asylum process.

Previously, there had been a decline in the number of asylum appeals, which had led to shorter processing times for these cases. However, experts now warn that the current surge in appeals may reverse the progress made in speeding up judicial proceedings.

According to Sven Rebehn, the Federal Executive Director of the German Judges' Association (DRB), the courts are beginning to face another wave of claims. He cautions that if the rapid increase in new appeals continues, it could hinder the trend toward more efficient asylum court processes.

For instance, at the Trier Administrative Court, which is noted for its fast processing times, the average duration for handling cases rose from four months to five and a half months in 2024. This increase still reflects the court's efficiency; however, many other courts across Germany are experiencing significantly longer processing times.

To address this issue, Rebehn emphasizes the need for more judges and suggests a greater focus on consolidating cases within specialized asylum chambers. While some regions have made strides in bolstering their judicial staff, the latest figures indicate that these measures may not be sufficient to manage the escalating number of cases.

A recent survey conducted by the German Judges' Journal among state justice ministries reveals that administrative courts nationwide are grappling with soaring case numbers. The increase in appeals is partly attributed to the more efficient processing of asylum claims by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF), which has been able to address cases more rapidly.

The statistics show that 100,494 new primary proceedings were entered in administrative courts in 2024, marking an increase of 38,287 cases or 62 percent compared to 2022. North Rhine-Westphalia reported the highest number of new cases, with approximately 19,000 appeals (a 50 percent rise from 2022), followed by Bavaria with around 15,000 and Baden-Württemberg with 12,755 appeals.