BERLIN — The leader of Germany’s opposition has announced plans to introduce measures aimed at tightening the country’s migration policies when parliament convenes next week. This initiative comes during a crucial period ahead of the nation’s elections, and carries inherent risks, particularly if these measures garner support from the far-right party.
Friedrich Merz, head of the center-right Union bloc, is currently at the forefront of polls ahead of Germany’s elections scheduled for February 23. In a related incident, he indicated that if elected chancellor, he would implement strict measures to prevent individuals from entering the country without proper documentation, as well as enhance deportation procedures. His comments were made following a tragic knife attack attributed to a rejected asylum seeker in Aschaffenburg, an incident that has emerged as a significant topic in the ongoing election campaign.
On Friday, Merz stated that the Union will propose motions to parliament, emphasizing that these motions reflect their beliefs, regardless of who may support them. This stance leaves him vulnerable to criticism for potentially violating commitments that prohibit collaboration with the far-right and anti-immigration party, Alternative for Germany (AfD). The AfD has been performing well in polls and has long urged the Union to reconsider the barriers that mainstream parties have erected against working with them.
Despite the tension, Merz has reiterated his position on AfD, asserting that his party will not endorse any of their proposals, partner with them in any government setup, or engage in negotiations regarding legislative matters. He reaffirmed that the Union is focused on attracting support from established mainstream parties instead.
The specific content of the proposed motions remains unclear at this time. Such motions typically serve as recommendations for government or parliamentary action but do not create binding laws. Additionally, it is uncertain whether these proposals will be subject to a vote before the upcoming election, as the review and voting process for motions and bills is usually extensive, often taking weeks to finalize unless expedited by a two-thirds majority vote.
The general secretary of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s center-left Social Democrats has voiced concerns regarding the implications of these developments. Matthias Miersch remarked that a prior agreement among mainstream parties emphasized resisting any legislation supported by AfD votes. He expressed concern that Merz’s actions may be undermining this consensus and consequently sending a troubling message.
Furthermore, center-left parties that Merz may seek to ally with for a coalition government have expressed skepticism about the practicality of his proposed migration policies. This uncertainty casts doubt on the potential success of his initiatives in the evolving political landscape.
