Neighbors Divided Over Dobrindt's Border Plan: Criticism, Yet Also Support Amidst the Asylum Row
Critics voice disapproval towards Dobrindt's border proposal, yet some still express approval.
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Germany's neighbors are in an uproar after Dobrindt's border announcement. The new interior minister intends to bolster border security, swiftly rejecting asylum seekers who aim for Germany. However, not everyone is pleased with this move. While some countries have expressed reservations, others seem to offer support.
Dobrindt's plan, unveiled shortly after forming the government, aims to increase the presence of federal police at Germany's borders. Some reports suggest these officers may work longer hours, up to 12 hours daily, to enforce the new measures[2]. However, not every refugee attempting entry will be automatically turned away. Pregnant women and children will be granted leniency and continue to receive protection.
Switzerland's Resentment:The Swiss authorities express discontent with Germany's actions. According to the Federal Department of Justice and Police, such systematic border rejections contradict Swiss law[1]. The Swiss authorities intend to monitor the consequences of these measures, potentially adopting counteractions if necessary. They emphasize that the checks should not disrupt goods and passenger traffic, allowing citizens to cross borders smoothly[1]. Despite federal councilor Beat Jans proposing a meeting with the responsible ministers, no response has been received so far[1].
Poland's Concern:Poland, under Prime Minister Donald Tusk, urged Chancellor Merz not to act unilaterally[3]. Poland has invested substantially in safeguarding the EU's external borders. Tusk clarified that the protection of internal borders was neglected in the past to preserve commuter traffic[3]. Although Tusk acknowledges the necessity of stricter border controls, he emphasizes they should primarily focus on external borders[3].
Austria and the Czech Republic's Support:On the other hand, Austria and the Czech Republic appear more supportive of Germany's approach. The Austrian and Czech Interior Ministries have engaged in dialogues with their German counterparts, expressing confidence in continued cooperation and adherence to European law[4]. Both countries expect Germany's measures to yield fruitful results in return and external border protection[4].
- Refugees
- Migration Policy
- EU Border Control
- Germany
- Friedrich Merz
- Alexander Dobrindt
- Switzerland
- Poland
- Donald Tusk
- Czech Republic
- Austria
References:[1] ntv.de - "Switzerland cautious after Germany's border controls"[2] Bild - "German Border Controls to Reject Most Refugees"[3] tusk.gov.pl - "Tusk's statement at the press conference with Chancellor Merz"[4] mpa.de - "Austria and Czech Republic support German border control course"
- Criticism from Switzerland arises due to Dobrindt's border plan, as it conflicts with Swiss law, according to the Federal Department of Justice and Police.
- Poland's Prime Minister, Donald Tusk, urges Chancellor Friedrich Merz to avoid unilateral actions regarding border controls, citing previous neglect of internal borders to preserve commuter traffic.
- In contrast, Austria and the Czech Republic express support for Germany's border control strategy and anticipate positive results in both internal and external border protection.
- The employment of federal police officers for longer hours at Germany's borders, as part of Dobrindt's plan, has been a point of contention among some asylum seekers and neighboring countries, leading to a mix of criticisms, concerns, and support from various European nations and refugees.
