Ten years after former Chancellor Angela Merkel’s defining statement regarding the refugee crisis, her administration’s migration policies are facing renewed scrutiny Hans-Peter Friedrich, a former Federal Interior Minister, has publicly criticized Merkel’s approach, labeling it a “profound political misjudgment
Friedrich asserts that the message of open borders resonated globally and triggered a large-scale influx of migrants that continues to strain Germany’s integration capabilities and social welfare systems He advocates for a firm stance against illegal immigration, emphasizing the need for preventative measures
Sahra Wagenknecht, founder of the BSW party, echoes Friedrich’s criticism, characterizing Merkel’s shift in refugee policy as one of the most significant errors in the history of the Federal Republic She further suggests Merkel lacks self-reflection on the issue and that her initial proclamation of “We can do it” remains disconnected from current realities
Wagenknecht contends that while humanitarian aid to those fleeing civil war is justified, Merkel’s decisions led to a loss of control and that this continues to challenge the country She argues that the policies implemented during that time contributed to the rise of the AfD party and are responsible for many of the problems Germany faces today