Immigration and Crime Debate Heats Up

Published: 2025-02-04

A heated debate unfolded on the German talk show "Hart aber fair" between host Louis Klamroth and AfD politician Beatrix von Storch over crime statistics involving immigrants.

Von Storch claimed that immigrants, particularly from Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq, were responsible for two group rapes and 131 violent crimes daily.

Klamroth countered, stating that the police statistics do not specify the origins of suspects, which could include anyone, even exchange students.

However, official data shows that 48% of suspects in such crimes in 2023 were non-German, with Syrians, Afghans, and Iraqis among the most frequently listed nationalities.

Critics argue that Klamroth's remarks were misleading, as Australia was not mentioned in the statistics.

The debate reflects ongoing tensions in Germany over immigration and crime, with some accusing politicians of populism and racism while others praise their candor.