Migration is a key issue in the ongoing negotiations between the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), the Christian Social Union (CSU), and the Social Democratic Party (SPD) to form a new coalition government. After resolving disagreements and securing the Federal Council’s approval for the historic debt package, tensions have emerged over the proposed shift in migration policy presented by CDU leader Friedrich Merz. The Social Democratic Party opposes the plan, particularly the proposal to reject asylum seekers at the border, which it considers unlawful.
Former SPD leader Sigmar Gabriel warned against rejecting Friedrich Merz’s migration plan during coalition talks, calling it ‘a serious mistake for the SPD.’ He criticized the party’s immigration policy as unrealistic and argued that it has driven many SPD voters toward the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). Gabriel emphasized that failing to adjust the party’s stance could further alienate its base.
Amid the ongoing coalition negotiations, the mayors of three cities have called on Friedrich Merz to ease bureaucratic burdens and support municipalities in addressing migration and the integration of migrants. In an urgent letter, the mayors of Tübingen, Esslingen, and Schwäbisch Gmünd urged the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader—who is set to become chancellor in a few weeks—to ensure that the federal government helps municipalities cover the rising costs resulting from the growing number of migrants.
The mayors urged Merz to accelerate the integration of migrants into the labor market by providing 40-hour language courses per week, including evening and weekend classes. They also highlighted broader social concerns, such as the deterioration of healthcare facilities and the need for better integration of people with disabilities.
In the same context, the Minister-President of North Rhine-Westphalia pointed out that municipalities are facing severe financial difficulties and need support from the federal government. He stated, ‘Massive social burdens are weighing heavily on the municipalities of North Rhine-Westphalia. Friedrich Merz made this point very clear in the Bundestag. The federal government has largely shifted the cost of its social benefits onto cities and municipalities. This situation must finally change.
