Switzerland Deems German Asylum Seeker Rejections Unlawful

Switzerland has raised concerns regarding the recent policy changes implemented by the German government under Chancellor Friedrich Merz, specifically targeting the stricter immigration controls at the borders. Following Poland's criticism, the Swiss government has also labeled the new regulations aimed at asylum seekers as unlawful.

On Wednesday, shortly after taking office, Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt of the Christian Social Union (CSU) announced that the Federal Police would now have the authority to turn away asylum seekers at the borders. This policy excludes vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and families with children.

The Swiss Justice Ministry publicly stated that systematic rejections at the border contradict existing legal frameworks. They indicated that Swiss authorities are considering possible measures in response to these developments.

Justice Minister Beat Jans has proposed a ministerial meeting to discuss the implications, although details on how the Swiss government will handle rejected asylum seekers remain unclear. A commitment for coordination with neighboring countries, as outlined in the coalition agreement between the Union and the Social Democrats (SPD), is expected to be upheld.

Germany had intensified border controls, particularly with Switzerland, in 2023, resulting in approximately 10,000 individuals being turned away last year. Swiss officials have expressed concerns that these heightened measures could disrupt the daily commutes of workers traveling to Switzerland.

In Poland, similar disapproval was voiced regarding Germany's plans to expand border checks and deny entry to asylum seekers. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized that each country retains sovereignty over its borders during a press conference with Chancellor Merz.

In response to Poland's concerns, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul assured that any tightening of migration policies would be conducted in consultation with neighboring countries. He emphasized a collaborative approach, stating that Germany would proceed step by step while coordinating with European partners.

Wadephul reiterated that both Germany and Poland share a common goal of effectively managing migration at the EU's external borders. He acknowledged Germany's status as a primary destination for migrants in Europe.

Austria's Interior Ministry also emphasized adherence to EU laws but avoided direct criticism of Germany, highlighting shared objectives in migration policy. Austrian officials expressed their support for Germany's efforts against human trafficking and illegal immigration.

The Austrian Interior Ministry confirmed its expectation that German authorities would comply with European legal standards in their actions. Previous statements from Vienna indicated that Austria would not accept individuals rejected by Germany at the border.

Critics within Germany, particularly from the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, have accused Chancellor Merz and Interior Minister Dobrindt of failing to deliver on their campaign promises regarding border policies. They argue that the recent actions do not align with their pledges to reject all asylum seekers at the borders.

The German Police Union (DPolG) has welcomed the clarifications regarding border rejections, asserting that the removal of previous directives has enabled the Federal Police to implement stricter controls. They emphasized that national laws now take precedence in these matters.

The union clarified that while there will be exceptions for certain groups, the legal framework allows for clear actions regarding border management. The Federal Republic of Germany has established agreements with neighboring countries about the conditions under which individuals are considered to have entered the country.