CDU/CSU and SPD seek to modify Germany's migration framework amidst ongoing negotiations.
Negotiators from Germany's Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Christian Social Union (CSU), along with the Social Democratic Party (SPD), are engaged in coalition negotiations aimed at revising the country's migration policy significantly.
A draft proposal has been put forward by the working group responsible for internal affairs, law, migration, and integration, which suggests several key changes to current migration practices.
The proposal advocates for an expansion of the list of safe countries of origin, a move intended to streamline deportation processes.
Countries under consideration for inclusion in this list include Algeria, India, Morocco, and Tunisia, with further evaluations planned for additional countries.
One notable aspect of the draft is the recommendation to terminate federal government-managed voluntary resettlement programs, particularly those aimed at individuals from
Afghanistan.
The introduction of new resettlement programs is not anticipated at this time.
Family reunification for individuals under subsidiary protection, often refugees from conflict areas, would also be affected, with a suspension proposed for a two-year period, while exceptional cases would remain exempted.
The draft suggests that asylum seekers may be turned away at German borders in cooperation with neighboring European countries.
However, the agreement on the application of this requirement—especially concerning potential consent from neighboring states—continues to be a contentious issue between the CDU/CSU and SPD.
There is a proposed objective to increase deportations, which includes the abolishment of mandatory legal assistance for individuals facing deportation.
Furthermore, it is proposed that the Federal Police be empowered to request temporary detention or deportation custody for foreigners required to leave the country.
Measures for long-term detention have been suggested for individuals identified as dangerous by security agencies based on criminal behaviors.
Individuals convicted of serious offenses, especially crimes of violence or sexual nature, are expected to be subject to deportation under this policy.
The scope of these proposed deportations would encompass a range of crimes including aggravated assault, hate speech, and offenses targeting law enforcement personnel.
On the other side, SPD representatives are advocating for the reintroduction of an extension for the chance residence permit.
This permit currently allows individuals who have resided legally in Germany for a minimum of five years to apply for a trial residence permit for 18 months, with a proposed new cut-off date of December 31, 2024.
Critiques of the migration proposals have surfaced, with organizations like Amnesty International warning that they could lead to the erosion of legal protections for migrants.
Opposition figures, including Clara Bünger from the Left party, argue that these policy alterations would contribute to a shift towards what they describe as a 'humanitarian ice age' and a deviation from core constitutional principles.
As negotiations progress, party leaders are scheduled to discuss these proposals starting this Friday, amidst financial considerations outlined in the working group's recommendations.