Germany has announced plans to strengthen its border controls at all land borders in an effort to curb “irregular migration”. The decision comes after a recent stabbing incident, which was carried out by a Syrian national who was found to be an illegal immigrant with ties to a radical Islamic group.
The move has sparked concerns among Germany’s neighboring countries, with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk describing the action as “unacceptable”. Tusk has vowed to consult with other affected countries to discuss a unified response within the European Union. Tusk canceled a planned trip to Germany last week, as well.
Austria’s Interior Minister Gernard Karner has also criticized Germany’s decision, labeling it as “illegal”. While acknowledging that addressing illegal immigration is a positive step, Karner emphasized that Austria would not accept migrants rejected by Germany.
“We will not take anyone back, there is zero leeway here,” Karner said, stressing the importance of upholding the rule of law in a constitutional state.
German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser defended the decision, highlighting the government’s efforts to combat irregular immigration. “We have already initiated a number of measures, including border controls at all land borders, which have been in place since yesterday,” she said.
Faeser also pointed to the success of previous border control measures, which have resulted in 30,000 deportations since October. The government has also launched a major deportation and repatriation package, she added. The tightened border controls are set to remain in place for the next six months, starting next week.
