A notable decline in asylum applications is prompting reassessment of current migration policies. Data released this week indicates a substantial drop in initial asylum requests during the first half of 2025, reaching 61,300 – a decrease of nearly 50% compared to the 121,426 applications received in the first half of 2024. This reduction has resulted in Germany no longer holding the position as the leading recipient of asylum seekers in Europe.
The downward trend is particularly pronounced in recent months. In June 2025, fewer than 7,000 initial asylum applications were registered, representing a drop of approximately 60% compared to June 2024 and a staggering 70% decrease from June 2023. This level of applications hasn’t been observed since March 2013, with similar figures only recorded during the early 2020 period impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.
The observed decline follows a period of policy adjustments including tightened border controls and the initial rejection of asylum requests made at the border. Certain aspects of these policies have faced legal challenges, with a court ruling deeming some rejections unlawful. These adjustments have also reportedly contributed to strained relationships with neighboring nations. The government has characterized the shift as a deliberate effort to reform migration management, emphasizing a continued commitment to fundamentally reshaping approaches to migration.