Germany tightens border controls amid surge of illegal migrants from Syria, Ukraine

New data from the Federal Government reveals that the majority of illegal migrants attempting to enter Germany in the second half of 2024 are coming from Syria and Ukraine. 

According to a report from the Federal Police, 20.6% of those who attempted to enter the country without valid permits were from Syria, while nearly one in five were from Ukraine, Caliber.Az reports via German media.

This influx has prompted regular checks at all German land borders since September 2024, aimed at curbing illegal migration. Although Ukrainian citizens do not need to apply for asylum to receive protection in Germany due to the EU's response to the Russian war in Ukraine, not all Ukrainians are permitted to enter. The Federal Government clarifies that Ukrainian nationals who have been living abroad for extended periods are not eligible for protection, as they are not at risk from the ongoing conflict.

The report also shows a notable decrease in illegal entries, from 127,549 in 2023 to 83,572 in 2024. The proportion of illegal migrants expressing an intention to seek asylum has similarly decreased, dropping from 44.7% in 2023 to just 23% last year.

Despite these developments, the Left Party has raised concerns over the federal government's approach. MP Clara Bünger criticized the shift in migration policy, arguing that many asylum seekers are being turned away without proper consideration. "In 2024, more than 40,000 people will be affected, likely including many asylum seekers," Bünger warned, calling the current policies disconnected from the realities of global migration pressures.

The debate surrounding these measures intensified with comments from CDU parliamentary group leader Friedrich Merz, who proposed more comprehensive rejections of migrants at the borders. His remarks have faced significant opposition, with critics arguing that the federal police's efforts are already sufficient to control illegal migration.

By Khagan Isayev