Demonstration against federal immigration policies taking place at the Federal Police headquarters
In recent days, Germany has witnessed a wave of protests at federal police sites, with activists voicing their concerns over the country's asylum policy and repatriations.
The latest demonstration took place at the construction site of the new federal police headquarters in Potsdam, where around 90 musicians joined forces to express their discontent. The protesters, organised by a group called "Lebenslaute", gained unauthorized access to the site and played music during the protest. Charges were filed against them for trespassing and violating assembly laws.
The federal police, responsible for controls related to irregular migration at Germany's borders, have been a subject of ongoing criticism. Their involvement in practices related to asylum seekers' repatriation has sparked particular controversy. Repatriations of asylum seekers at Germany's borders have been criticised for some time, with concerns raised about potential breaches of legal asylum protections and the humanitarian risks posed by deportations to conflict zones.
The government's effort to deport individuals lacking legal residency, including a focus on Afghans and Syrians, has been a point of contention for human rights advocates. These concerns have intensified following reports of delays and uncertain futures for Palestinian and Gazan refugee claims, as well as the suspension of family reunification for those with subsidiary protection.
Despite stricter policies introduced by the conservative coalition government in May 2025, asylum application numbers in Germany have seen a significant decline in 2025 compared to previous years, with a notable drop in Syrians, Afghans, and Turks applying for asylum. However, there is a projected rise in Afghan women asylum claims, with estimates suggesting they will exceed 10,000 cases in 2025.
As socio-political pressure mounts and tensions over migration policies increase, it is clear that the debate surrounding Germany's asylum and repatriation policy will continue to be a contentious issue. The government faces pressure from human rights groups and opposition parties to clarify and adjust these policies to safeguard asylum seekers' rights.
- The latest protest at the federal police headquarters construction site in Potsdam, led by "Lebenslaute," highlighted the group's discontent with the German government's politics, focusing on the controversial repatriation practices and asylum policy.
- The ongoing controversy surrounding the federal police's involvement in asylum seekers' repatriation, including the contentious government effort to deport individuals lacking legal residency, has played a significant role in the general-news discourse, fueling debate and pressure for policy adjustments.
