Over 9,500 Refusals at German Border Posts Since Stricter Border Enforcement - More than 9500 instances of border crossings reported in Germany after enhanced security measures
In a move aimed at combating illegal migration and smuggling, the Federal Government led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU/CSU) has reinstated temporary border controls with neighbouring Schengen countries. This decision, ordered by Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) on May 7, is part of a broader effort to enhance security and address potential terrorism threats.
The current policies, which are planned to remain in place until at least mid-September 2025, involve stringent identity checks and eligibility verifications at the borders. The Federal Police (Bundespolizei) plays a central role in these checks, refusing entry to irregular migrants and managing deportations.
The tightened controls have led to significant results. Over 9506 individuals have been rejected at the borders, with 474 prevented from crossing because they entered from a safe third country. Moreover, 2220 people with outstanding arrest warrants were detained as a byproduct of these controls.
However, the specific measures of these tightened controls and rejections have not been detailed. It is also not clear which specific groups are affected, although so-called vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women are exempt.
The Federal Police has taken additional steps in connection with these controls. They have temporarily detained 450 smugglers and imposed a ban on re-entry for 418 people. However, they have not provided information about the specific measures of the tightened controls.
The repercussions of these controls extend beyond Germany's borders. Reciprocal border checks have been imposed by Poland, leading to tensions between the two countries. Over 70 refusals of irregular entry have occurred at the German border recently.
Chancellor Merz has emphasized that these controls are not meant to undermine the Schengen Agreement of free movement but are temporary until a European-wide solution to migration is reached.
In summary, the current German government's position is to maintain internal EU security and migration control while awaiting a broader EU migration policy solution. This approach reflects a balance between security and the preservation of free movement within the Schengen Area.
- In response to the ongoing issues of illegal migration and smuggling, an emphasis on vocational training programs within EC countries could provide a more proactive solution, offering alternative paths for at-risk individuals and reducing the incentive for irregular migration.
- As the Federal German Government focuses on enforcement and security measures to combat illegal migration, it is essential to consider the political implications and general-news coverage of such actions, as well as the impact on crime and justice systems, to ensure a holistic approach that considers both security and human rights concerns.
