New German interior minister defends harder line on migration policy
The tougher approach to migration policy taken by Germany's new coalition government is already showing results, according to Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt.
"Asylum applications at the border are also low because word has quickly got around that entry into the Federal Republic of Germany is no longer guaranteed despite asylum applications," Dobrindt told Welt am Sonntag, in comments published on Saturday.
Hours after taking office on May 6, Dobrindt imposed stricter border checks, instructing that all asylum seekers should be turned back. The measures do not apply to pregnant women, children or other vulnerable people.
During the interview, Dobrindt also spoke of a "domino effect," noting that neighbouring countries have followed suit by increasing checks at their own borders.
When asked about criticism from Poland and Switzerland, he reponded: "You should also mention those countries that support our new migration policy." The minister cited France, Denmark, the Czech Republic and Austria.
"[These countries] have viewed our magnetic effect on refugees with concern, which was triggered by the [previous government's] migration policy. They all welcome the fact that Germany is becoming less attractive in terms of illegal migration."
Poland's embassy in Berlin had previously raised concerns over the tighter border controls, warning such measures could disrupt cross-border traffic and the functioning of the EU's internal market.
Switzerland also emphasized that Germany's incoming conservative-led government must keep its treatment of migrants and refugees in line with European law.
Dobrindt added that Germany's policy shift also helps to ease pressure on transit countries. "There are no problems at the German borders," said Dobrindt. The aim was not to overburden Germany's neighbours, he said.
"But our neighbours must also understand that Germany is no longer prepared to continue its migration policy of recent years."
Meanwhile, Germany's GdP police union has warned that the stricter border controls can only be sustained for a limited period.
The federal police, responsible for the country's borders, have managed the additional workload only by adjusting duty rosters, suspending training sessions, and deferring overtime leave, the chairman of the union has stated.
Since mid-October 2023, German customs officers, who fall under the Finance Ministry, have been supporting police along the borders with Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria and Switzerland.
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