Churches Speak Out Against Proposed Family Reunification Ban for Refugees
The Catholic and Evangelical churches in Germany have expressed strong opposition to the plan by Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt to halt family reunification for refugees with subsidiary protection.
The Archbishop of Hamburg, Stefan Heße, told local newspapers that he views the proposal very critically, as it would lead to the separation of war refugees from their closest family members for an extended period. “This is ethically very questionable and has a negative impact on integration” the Archbishop said, emphasizing that the German constitution protects the family under the state’s special care. “This promise of protection applies to all families in our country, including those seeking protection.”
The Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD) also criticized the proposal, with Bishop Christian Stäblein, the EKD’s point of person for refugee issues, stating, “Parents and children belong together. Siblings belong together. Families belong together.” He emphasized that it is a command of neighborly love to ensure that all people, including refugees and those with subsidiary protection, are not separated from their closest relatives for years. “The connection and cohesion of the family are crucial for a good start in a new life. Those who can live with their loved ones in safety will find a sense of belonging more quickly, learn our language more easily, can integrate better and will be more likely to become part of our society.” Therefore, the church believes that generous regulations for family reunification are necessary. The Interior Minister plans to present his draft laws to limit migration to the cabinet on Wednesday.