Germany enforces stricter border controls with EU neighbours amid immigration crackdown

Germany has announced the implementation of tighter border controls in an effort to curb irregular migration and address growing concerns over internal security, particularly in response to recent incidents involving asylum seekers.

Starting September 16, these controls, which will last for an initial six-month period, will cover all of Germany’s land borders, including those with fellow European Union nations.

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser outlined the government's decision, stating that these measures are aimed at preventing irregular migration and safeguarding public safety, particularly against threats like Islamist extremism.

This move comes as part of a broader strategy by Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s government to regain control of the immigration debate, which has increasingly been dominated by the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) and conservative parties.

These opposition groups have gained traction among voters concerned about the strain on public services, integration challenges, and security issues.

Faeser also revealed that a new model would allow authorities to turn away a greater number of migrants at the border, though specific details remain undisclosed, as discussions with opposition conservatives are still ongoing.

Critics warn that this move may lead to tensions within the EU’s Schengen zone, where free movement is typically allowed.

However, Germany has already reinstated border checks with several neighboring countries, including Poland, Austria, and the Czech Republic, resulting in the return of over 30,000 migrants since October 2023.

Recent knife attacks in Germany, attributed to asylum seekers, have fueled public anxiety about immigration.

Notably, an attack in the city of Solingen in August, for which the Islamic State group claimed responsibility, left three people dead.

These incidents have further intensified the political debate, with the far-right AfD party gaining ground in regional elections, notably winning its first state election in Thuringia earlier this month.

Migration has also become a top issue in Brandenburg, which is due for elections soon.

Germany's efforts to tighten its immigration policies follow a broader trend that began after the 2015-2016 migrant crisis, during which the country welcomed over a million people fleeing war and poverty, particularly from Syria.

More recently, Germany accepted around a million Ukrainian refugees following Russia’s invasion in 2022, despite facing its own economic and energy challenges.

The introduction of these new border controls could strain relations with other EU member states, as under the bloc's rules, Schengen area countries are only permitted to implement such checks as a last resort to protect internal security.

Austria, which shares a border with Germany, has already stated that it will not accept any migrants turned away by German authorities.

While the number of asylum applications in Germany has already dropped by 21.7% in the first eight months of 2024, the new border restrictions are seen as a measure to further reduce arrivals and serve as a deterrent.

The full impact of these controls, however, may take time to materialize, particularly in terms of migrant returns to other European nations.