Migration Policy Debate in Thuringia: Keep the Humanity Alive
Thuringia's Integration Commissioner, Mirjam Kruppa, has launched an online campaign to humanize the migration debate. Addressing a gathering in Erfurt on a recent Thursday, Kruppa expressed concern over the rising trend of viewing refugee restrictions as a solution to contemporary social challenges. She believes the increasing populist and nationalist rhetoric concerning refugees could be detrimental. The aim of this campaign is to form an alliance under the banner of "#menschlichbleiben".
Brandenburg had kickstarted a similar campaign at the beginning of November, which saw thousands of signatures within a short period.
Kruppa explained that stricter refugee rights and freedoms restrictions are having significant repercussions on their ability to shape their lives. Moreover, the inhumane political treatment of refugees negatively impacts those working towards refugee integration on a daily basis.
In 2022, a total of 39,000 individuals from diverse backgrounds resettled in Thuringia, including approximately 32,000 war refugees from Ukraine. The region has welcomed around 14,000 individuals seeking protection in 2023.
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- Kruppa's appeal in Thuringia echoes Brandenburg's earlier call for empathy in the migration debate, aiming to maintain humanity in the face of increasing opposing views.
- Political migration policies have reshaped Thuringia, welcoming over 39,000 diverse inhabitants in 2022, notably war refugees from Ukraine, who face significant challenges with integration.
- In response to growing anti-refugee sentiments and tightening migration policies, Kruppa promotes unity and integration, highlighting the negative impacts of exclusionary rhetoric on everyday integration work.
As Kruppa's online appeal aims to counter the rising backlash against migrants, local officials in Thuringia must address various challenges connected to managing the increased refugee population, fostering social cohesion, and ensuring equal opportunities for all residents. Furthermore, policymakers must consider the potential ramifications of the controversial Anti-Migration policies championed by the Alternative for Germany (AfD) and its influence on the migration debate in both Thuringia and Brandenburg.
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The Alternative for Germany (AfD), with significant influence in Thuringia and Brandenburg, advocates for tightening migration policies. Some of their key objectives are:
- Restrictive Immigration Policies:
- Limit Mass Immigration: AfD favors limiting immigration and prioritizing skilled workers who can integrate into German society effectively.
- Enhanced Screening of Refugees: The party advocates for stricter background checks of refugees to avoid security risks.
- Anti-Muslim Rhetoric:
- Anti-Burqa Stance: AfD speaks against Islamic symbols, including the burqa, minarets, and call to prayer in public areas.
- Criticism of Multiculturalism: The party accuses multiculturalism of failing in Germany.
- Deportation Campaigns:
- Deportation Ticket Incident: In 2025, the Karlsruhe AfD distributed "Abschiebetickets" (deportation tickets) flyers, sparking investigations for incitement to hatred.
AfD's objectives and impacts pose ongoing challenges to migration policy, societal cohesion, and humanitarian rights, while fueling debate around how to best protect and integrate refugees.
