German Chancellor Olaf Scholz criticized the migration plan proposed by the Christian Democratic Union/Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU) faction, which is scheduled for a vote in the Bundestag at the end of this week. He also accused Union leader Merz of collaborating with the Alternative for Germany party. In a statement to the German news agency, Scholz remarked, “I am open to discussing any issue. However, the proposals put forth by Merz are immature and will not be very helpful.”
Scholz also defended the federal government’s immigration policy, emphasizing that it has already been significantly tightened. He noted that he has consistently reached agreements with the federal states, but the CDU/CSU are obstructing the current legislative proposals in the Bundesrat. Furthermore, he pointed out that the two parties, acting on behalf of Merz, have withdrawn from negotiations twice.
In a related context, seven prime ministers and state leaders from the Social Democratic Party sent an appeal letter to their colleagues in the Union. They expressed concern that democratic politicians might vote alongside members of the Alternative for Germany party, which is categorized as a far-right party. The letter emphasized that “the firewall between democratic and non-democratic parties must not be allowed to falter.”
The leadership of the parliamentary group of the Union is determined to proceed with a vote on its immigration plan, despite the fact that securing a majority is impossible without the support of the Alternative for Germany party. Thorsten Frei, the parliamentary director general of the Union faction, emphasized that the Union will not allow anyone to obstruct the introduction of policies it considers appropriate. This stance applies not only to the Alternative for Germany party but also to the Greens and the Social Democratic Party. Frei clarified that the Union does not collaborate with the Alternative for Germany party, does not share drafts with its representatives, and does not engage in consultations with them.
The AfD parliamentary group has expressed support for the EU’s migration plan. An AfD spokesman noted that the final versions of the plan are still unavailable, and the group will make its decision during an upcoming meeting.
Legal experts argue that the EU’s migration plan breaches European law. Jürgen Bast, a law professor at the University of Giessen, states that permanent border controls in Germany are not allowed; they can only be implemented temporarily and under specific circumstances of danger.
Bast argues that the faction’s proposals overlook the European regulatory framework. “This approach contradicts fundamental principles outlined in the EU treaties,” he stated. “While it is possible to change the law, such changes must occur at the European level.” He also emphasized that Germany, situated in the heart of the European Union, does not have closed borders.
