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Germany Today

German news in English

Friday, September 20, 2024

Germany's Border Control Debate Heats Up

Published: 2024-08-12

In Germany, the debate over border controls has intensified, with various political figures expressing differing views on the issue.

Rhineland-Palatinate's Minister President Alexander Schweitzer supports temporary border controls to curb illegal migration but criticizes calls for permanent measures as too simplistic.

Similarly, Schleswig-Holstein's FDP leader Christopher Vogt sees temporary controls as necessary, especially against the backdrop of geopolitical tensions involving Russia and Belarus, but warns against a return to closed borders within Europe.

Meanwhile, Interior Minister Nancy Faeser's implementation of stationary controls at borders with Poland, Czech Republic, and Switzerland has shown success in reducing illegal entries, though it faces criticism from within her coalition and the EU for potentially violating the Schengen Agreement.

The ongoing debate highlights the tension between maintaining open borders for economic reasons and addressing security concerns.