Merz Stands Firm on EU Border Controls, Demands Directives Review
Border crossings lack a centralized service for all necessary procedures
In a rocky start to German-EU relations, Chancellor Friedrich Merz has positioned Germany to regain control over its borders. Proclaiming Germany's neighbors have been informed and no one has declared an emergency, he insists his actions are in line with European law. Meanwhile, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urges coordinated action with Brussels and the neighboring states.
Merz's beliefs about border controls are unwavering. "We're stepping up border patrols," he announced in Brussels. "More intense checks, turning people away—but it's all legitimate under European law." Von der Leyen, on the other hand, has expressed concerns, pushing for united action. "We must collaborate closely regarding borders," she said.
The National Emergency that Ain't
Rumors circulated about Merz declaring a "national emergency" for the control of the German borders were quickly debunked by government officials. "Nah, man. No emergency here," Merz clarified. Indeed, the Federal Police fear being overloaded with work from the border controls.
Austria Reaps Nuances, EU Law Squabbles Continue
With strengthened border controls, critics claim it may be in violation of EU law. Some argue it contradicts the spirit of a border-free EU internal market. Nevertheless, Austria has expressed support for Germany's efforts against the smuggling mafia and illegal migration, provided EU law is respected. In Vienna, they emphasize adhering to existing EU law.
Merz Pushes EU Commission for EU Directives Rollback
During his visit to Brussels, Merz demanded a clear correction from the EU Commission. Following meetings with EU Council President Antonio Costa and Commission President von der Leyen, he urged the abolition of the EU's supply chain directive. He threatened to repeal the directive in Germany and expects the EU to follow suit.
EU Presidents Enthusiastically Collaborate
Unfortunately, the enrichment data doesn't reveal much about Merz's stance on the Capital Market Union. However, both von der Leyen and Merz shared a common goal of enhancing the capital market union in the EU, easing access to loans for companies. Moreover, both leaders advocated for more free trade agreements, potentially indicative of economic integration efforts within the EU.
As Merz continues to flex his political muscle, it'll be intriguing to observe the evolving dynamics between Germany and its EU partners. Could a conservative-led Germany pave the way for a new vision of European cooperation, or will it spark heated debates and conflicts? Time will tell.
Enrichment Data:
EU Border Controls:Merz's stance on EU border controls caters to stricter migration policies. Immediately after taking office in 2025, his government revoked the 2015 Merkel-era instruction that allowed undocumented immigrants to enter Germany and seek asylum on humanitarian grounds. His approach emphasizes turning back irregular migrants and asylum seekers at Germany's borders to reduce asylum application numbers and signal a changed migration policy.
EU Directives:Merz's administration uses EU treaty clauses to justify strengthened border control and rejecting entry rights for asylum seekers who do not comply with the "first country of entry" rule. They argue their policies are legally sound within the framework of existing EU law and directives, demonstrating a strict interpretation and enforcement of EU asylum directives.
Capital Market Union:No explicit information is found regarding Merz's stance on the Capital Market Union. Given his focus on economic revitalization and national defense, it is likely his government would support measures to boost economic integration and capital market development within the EU, but evidence is sparse for now.
- The Commission has also been involved in the preparation of the draft directive, as Merz pushed for a rollback of the EU's supply chain directive during his visit to Brussels.
- In Brussels, Merz advocated for more control over Germany's borders in a manner he deemed legitimate under European law, echoing his earlier actions to strengthen border patrols.
- The commission, led by President von der Leyen, has expressed concerns about potential violations of EU law regarding strengthened border controls, such as those implemented by Merz in Germany.
- In Vienna, Austria has offered support for Germany's efforts against the smuggling mafia and illegal migration, as long as EU law is respected—similar to Merz's approach in advocating for a strong implementation of existing EU directives in border control matters.
