Germany’s Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt has highlighted a significant decrease in illegal migration to the country, attributing it to increased border enforcement measures. According to a statement provided to Stern magazine, over 10,000 individuals attempting to enter Germany illegally have been turned away at the border since tightened controls were implemented on May 8th of this year. Approximately 550 of those turned away had applied for asylum.
The Minister defended the practice of turning away asylum seekers, despite a recent ruling by the Berlin Administrative Court, asserting that all actions taken are within the bounds of national and European law. Dobrindt emphasized the importance of demonstrating effective policy implementation, suggesting public disillusionment with politics can grow when policies appear ineffective.
Regarding the duration of the current border regime, the Minister indicated a desire to await the full implementation of the Common European Asylum System (CEAS). EU member states are required to transpose the CEAS regulations into national law by June 2026. Dobrindt expressed frustration with the lack of cooperation from some EU nations regarding the return of asylum seekers for whom they are responsible, stating that such cooperation is essential for a functioning asylum system. He underscored the government’s commitment to restoring this functionality.