At the recent CSU party conference in Augsburg, Friedrich Merz, the Union's chancellor candidate, voiced strong criticisms of the current government coalition's approach to migration and security. He advocated for stricter border controls, including the rejection of irregular migrants, and emphasized the need for a more significant German presence within the European Union. Merz's proposals reflect growing concerns over crime associated with newcomers and the necessity for labor market immigration.
Merz also underscored the challenges Europe faces in the wake of shifting global dynamics, particularly as he anticipates a more complicated relationship with the United States after the upcoming presidential election. Regardless of who wins, he believes the new administration will prioritize the Asia-Pacific region, requiring Europe to take greater responsibility for its own security.
In addition to immigration and foreign policy, the CSU has called for a cap on asylum applications, proposing a limit of under 100,000 cases. Other key proposals include the reintroduction of compulsory military service, the establishment of a 'drone army' and a 'cyber brigade', along with various economic reforms aimed at enhancing Bavaria's cohesion. The party seeks to transition from individual rights to a more institutional guarantee of asylum, reflecting a broader shift in their approach to migration and defense. This conference marks a pivotal moment for the CSU as it sets its agenda for the future amid evolving geopolitical realities.
