Recent reports reveal that Germany turned away 1,676 individuals at its borders within the first two weeks of intensified controls. Federal Minister of the Interior, Alexander Dobrindt, defends these measures, claiming they effectively curb illegal entry.
However, legal scholar Hruschka challenges this stance, arguing that the right to seek asylum must be upheld, regardless of the current influx. The rising number of rejections, which has surged by 45 percent since May, raises concerns about the legality of such actions.
Critics assert that international regulations, including the Dublin Regulation, prohibit Germany from unilaterally denying asylum seekers at its borders. Historically, previous governments avoided similar rejections to maintain the open borders characteristic of the Schengen Area.
Public opinion remains divided; a recent survey indicates that 51 percent believe the stricter controls will reduce asylum seekers, while 47 percent remain skeptical about their effectiveness. Additionally, the number of asylum applications has notably declined, dropping by 35 percent in the first third of the year.
This decline raises questions about the justification of these stringent measures amidst a seemingly manageable situation. The discussions surrounding these border policies highlight a significant tension between national security and humanitarian obligations, urging a re-examination of the legal frameworks that govern asylum processes.
