The current union’s proposals to limit migration have met with strong opposition from the evangelical church. “They are not, in our view, designed to solve the problems because they represent a German solo act” said the EKD council chair, Kirsten Fehrs, in an interview with the “Focus” (Friday edition). “We can only solve the problems together in the EU.”
The bishop of Hamburg called for the right to asylum to be upheld. “Moreover, we need to find common solutions on the European level, such as fairer distribution keys and, ultimately, we need a faster and easier immigration of skilled workers” she said.
The current German discussion is placing too much emphasis on deterrence and is fostering prejudices against all migrant people. “Our task should always be to break down prejudices and strengthen the rights of the weaker” said Fehrs.
“The dignity of the human being does not end at national borders. We will continue to advocate for this, together with our Catholic and Orthodox brothers and sisters” said the EKD council chair. “Even if, of course, there will always be a process of finding common ground within the democratic spectrum, it should be clear where the red lines are.”
The EKD council chair also contradicted her pastor colleague and former President Joachim Gauck, who in 2015 said: “Our heart is wide, yet our possibilities are finite.” Fehrs sees Germany still in its responsibility. “Our possibilities may be finite, yet the responsibility towards people in need does not become smaller because of that” she said. “Faith reminds us that we often can achieve more than we initially think possible.