Government deliberates on immigration policies and rental adjustment measures - Government addresses plans regarding immigration and rental price adjustments
German Federal Government Announces Restrictions on Family Reunification and Extends Rent Brake
The German Federal Government, under the leadership of Chancellor Friedrich Merz, has approved a series of changes to its migration policy, reflecting a more restrictive approach. Key aspects include stricter measures for family reunification and an extension of the rent brake regulation.
In terms of family reunification, the government has approved a bill suspending the right to family reunification for refugees with subsidiary protection status for the next two years. This measure primarily affects Syrian refugees, raising concerns about family separation. Critics argue that this move will harm vulnerable populations and reduce social cohesion.
The government has also abolished the 'express naturalisation' pathway, which allowed well-integrated migrants to apply for citizenship after just three years. This move aligns with the government's aim to reduce "pull factors" for irregular migrants and increase control over immigration.
Regarding the rent brake regulation, intended to control rent increases in urban areas, the Ministry of Justice has submitted a bill to extend the policy for four more years. The initial expiration of the regulation was due at the end of this year.
Chancellor Merz has emphasized the need for Germany to be a country of immigration with clear, fair policies that benefit Germany. This approach includes more limitations, rejections, control, and deportations, aligning with European law and addressing public concerns about immigration. However, these changes have been met with criticism from human rights groups.
[Sources: 2, 3, 4]
- The German Federal Government's new migration policy, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, includes stricter measures for family reunification, extending to a suspension of the right for two years for refugees with subsidiary protection status, which predominantly affects Syrian refugees, sparking concerns about family separation and potential harm to vulnerable populations.
- In addition to stricter family reunification measures, the German Government has abolished the 'express naturalisation' pathway, aligning with their aim to reduce "pull factors" for irregular migrants and increase control over immigration, a shift reflecting Chancellor Merz's emphasis on clear, fair policies in line with European law and public concerns about immigration.
