Germany’s New Interior Minister Backs Tougher Migration Policy

Germany’s Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt claims that the country’s newly tightened migration policy is already yielding results. In an interview with Welt am Sonntag, published Saturday, Dobrindt said that asylum applications at the border have significantly decreased, attributing the drop to the clear message that entry into Germany is no longer guaranteed just by seeking asylum.

Shortly after assuming office on May 6, Dobrindt introduced more rigorous border controls, mandating that all asylum seekers be turned away at the border—except for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and children.

He also mentioned a "domino effect," noting that neighboring countries have strengthened their own border measures in response to Germany's new stance.

When questioned about negative reactions from Poland and Switzerland, Dobrindt pointed out that other nations, including France, Denmark, the Czech Republic, and Austria, have expressed support for Germany’s policy shift. These countries, he said, were previously concerned about Germany’s draw for refugees due to the more lenient approach of the former government.

Dobrindt emphasized that reducing Germany’s appeal to irregular migrants also helps alleviate pressure on transit countries. “There are no issues at the German borders,” he stated, adding that the objective is to avoid overwhelming neighboring states. However, he made it clear that Germany is no longer willing to continue the migration policies of previous years.