Germany Extends Temporary Border Controls Amid Migration and Security Concerns
This week, the German government revealed plans to extend temporary border controls at its internal borders with all nine EU neighbors, effective September 16th. These measures, which will increase police checks at borders with countries including Denmark, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg—previously free of checks—are part of the government's strategy to combat irregular migration and address increasing security concerns related to Islamist terrorism and serious crime.
Interior Minister Nancy Faeser of the Social Democrats (SPD) emphasized that these border controls are in alignment with European and national law and may lead to travelers being turned away at checkpoints. The government reassured that efforts would be made to minimize disruptions for commuters.
Aspects of border control have become routine since the migrant crisis of 2015, especially focused on entry from Austria. Most recently, in October 2023, the Interior Ministry implemented checks at borders with Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland. The upcoming checks set to affect crossings with France, Denmark, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg will be in place for a minimum of six months.
This year, border checks were also intensified for the Euro 2024 event and for the Olympic and Paralympic Games hosted in France. Since the introduction of increased surveillance, it has been reported that approximately 30,000 individuals have been denied entry into Germany.
Travelers entering Germany should anticipate potential delays and be prepared for random checks, whether traveling by car, train, or bus. Specific routes, such as the A17 connecting Prague and Dresden, are expected to experience more significant traffic delays. Other frequently used crossings with Austria, like Suben on the A3 and Walserberg on the A8, are also likely to see more frequent inspections.
In light of the current situation, all travelers are advised to carry valid identification and relevant travel documentation, as those without proper credentials might be denied entry.
The timing of these stringent measures comes as the government grapples with escalating pressure to address the increasing influx of migrants and to enhance national security in the wake of recent extremist attacks. Notably, a tragic knife attack in Solingen in August, carried out by a Syrian suspect who had managed to evade deportation, has heightened public anxiety regarding immigration issues. This incident, just before crucial regional elections in eastern Germany, saw significant gains for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, spurring further debates on the government's immigration policies.
The topic of migration continues to dominate the political landscape, often ranking as one of the top concerns among voters. In a statement from July, Chancellor Olaf Scholz affirmed the government's commitment to strict border controls, underscoring the priority of managing migration effectively in Germany.
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