Switched Gears: Germany's Shift on Asylum Seekers and the "National Emergency" Declaration
Urgent Matter: Merz's Stance on Imposing a 'National Crisis' Declaration regarding Immigration - Migration Update: Merz Representative Disputes Claim of Declaring a "Nationwide Crisis"
In a striking reversal of policies, Germany's new leadership, spearheaded by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, has declared a "national emergency" regarding migration. This declaration is based on Article 72 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), which empowers member states to deviate from EU regulations to uphold public order and secure internal safety[3][4][5].
Crucial Milestones
- Activating Article 72: By utilizing this article, Germany intends to institute stringent border controls, which could potentially mean suspending the Dublin Agreement, a regulatory framework for handling EU asylum claims[3][4].
- Coordination with National Measures: The government aims to bolster its border control capabilities by merging Article 72 with domestic regulatory amendments[3].
- International Liaisons: Diplomats from neighboring countries were briefed about the situation, reflecting the gravity of the migration crisis for Germany[4].
- Policy Realignment: This move marks a stark contrast to previous administrations, particularly that of Chancellor Angela Merkel, who opened Germany's doors to refugees during the 2015-2016 crisis[4].
Effects on Asylum Seekers
- Boundary Barricades: The new strategy involves barring most undocumented individuals at the border, signifying a radical shift in Germany's approach to asylum seekers[2][4].
- EU Tensions: This resolution may generate friction within the EU, as it involves circumventing certain EU regulations to prioritize national edicts[5].
Legal and Political Backdrop
- Far-Right Influence: The current administration encompasses a far-right faction, designated as extremist by Germany's domestic intelligence agency. This shift in migration policy is partly due to this presence[2].
- Public and Political Urgency: The declaration of a national emergency transpires amid growing unrest among the public and rising crime rates[4].
- Chancellor Friedrich Merz's new leadership in Germany has reiterated a policy shift towards asylum seekers, declaring a "national emergency" on migration.
- This decision is founded on Article 72 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), enabling controls deviating from EU regulations to maintain public order and ensure internal security.
- The employment policy under this new administration has also been geared towards stricter border controls, potentially leading to the suspension of the Dublin Agreement and changes in the employment policy regarding asylum seekers.
- The shift in Germany's refugee policy, influenced by the far-right faction within the administration and a response to growing public unrest, could lead to increased political tension within the EU.
