Proposal for a worker radiation safety directive requested from the Commission due to risks associated with ionizing radiation exposure.
Germany's Border Controls: A Costly Measure for Enhanced Security
Alexander Throm, the interior policy spokesman for the Union faction in the Bundestag, has defended the high costs associated with Germany's border controls, stating that they are necessary for maintaining national security and managing immigration. These controls, initially introduced as a temporary exception to Schengen free movement rules in September 2024, have been repeatedly extended to curb irregular migration and combat cross-border crime.
Throm's statements come in response to criticism of the high costs of border controls. According to the Federal Government's response to a minor interpellation by The Left, the expenses incurred by the border controls at German state borders amount to 80.5 million euros as of the end of June. This figure includes deployment of federal police, meals and accommodation, allowances for unsociable hours, administrative resources, and operational running costs. Overtime pay alone constituted the largest expense at 37.9 million euros during this period.
Throm believes that the security of the population and protection against illegal migration justify the costs of border controls. He cited rejections, open arrest warrants, smugglers, and extremists as examples of how border controls enhance security. Additionally, he mentioned the potential negative impacts of illegal migration on social cohesion.
However, critics argue that these measures are unlawful, harmful to travelers and asylum seekers, and create significant traffic congestion in border regions. The extensive use of police overtime and deployment has resulted in excessive costs that many view as an inefficient use of federal funds. The policy also places additional strain on daily cross-border commuters, complicating regular travel and commerce.
Increased traffic congestion and delays in border regions affecting daily commuters are among the societal impacts of these controls. Difficulties imposed on asylum seekers, including refusals of entry at the border, have faced criticism on humanitarian and legal grounds. There are also concerns about potential strain on bilateral relations with neighboring countries due to frequent and extended border checks within the Schengen area.
In summary, while the government justifies the high costs by security and immigration control needs, critics highlight substantial economic costs and negative effects on freedom of movement and asylum rights. The financial outlay surpassing €80 million within less than a year underscores the significant economic implications of such border policies. The debate continues as Germany navigates the balance between security and cost-effectiveness in its border control measures.
[1] Source: Federal Government's response to The Left's minor interpellation [2] Source: Rheinische Post (Friday edition) [3] Source: Die Welt [4] Source: Spiegel Online
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