Germany made a significant announcement this week, unveiling plans to extend controls to all its land borders and take a stricter stance on asylum seekers in an effort to reduce irregular migration, marking a departure from its previous open-door policy. This move is a setback to the principle of free movement within the European Union and could potentially strain regional unity.
The decision comes in the wake of the rise of anti-migration sentiments in the country, as seen in recent state elections. It is believed to be both a response to the strain that irregular migration has placed on public services and a bid to counter growing support for far-right and conservative opposition parties.
While the announcement may impact travel within the EU, with potential delays at borders and increased checks on vehicles, reactions from neighboring countries have varied. Some have expressed concern about the implications for asylum seekers and trade, while others, like Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, have welcomed the move.
Germany’s plans are part of a larger trend in asylum applications in the EU, which saw a peak in 2023 but a recent decline. The German government will need to work with its regional governments and European partners to implement these changes effectively.
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