Immigration Policy
How is the principle of free movement changing within the European Union?
The principle of free movement within the European Union is facing significant challenges, as evidenced by the intensifying border checks in Germany. Rather than the open borders that define EU ideals, tens of thousands of people have been turned away from German borders in recent months. This shift reflects growing migration tensions and security concerns, with Germany implementing stricter border controls that fundamentally alter how movement works within the EU. The clip highlights this contradiction between the EU's founding principle of free movement and the current reality of increased restrictions and border enforcement.
Watch clip answer (00:08m)
Al Jazeera English
00:00 - 00:09
Why is the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) advocating for stricter border checks in Germany?
The CDU is advocating for stricter border checks primarily due to security concerns about uncontrolled immigration. According to the party's representative, accepting migrants with diverse cultural backgrounds without proper checks increases the risk of people who might pose danger to society. This stance has gained traction following several security incidents, including a recent car ramming attack in Munich that resulted in two fatalities, reportedly involving migrants. The party's popularity in polls has risen after such incidents, reflecting growing public concern about immigration security in Germany.
Watch clip answer (00:17m)Al Jazeera English
00:24 - 00:41
What do recent polls reveal about German public opinion on border security ahead of elections?
A recent survey indicates nearly 70% of Germans support implementing permanent border patrols, despite such measures potentially violating European Union law. This significant shift in public sentiment comes just before Sunday's election and represents a notable contrast to former Chancellor Angela Merkel's approach from a decade ago. This growing support for stricter border controls coincides with rising popularity for the far-right Alternative for Germany party (AfD), which advocates for more restrictive immigration policies. The changing attitudes reflect increasing concerns about safety and national security among German voters, marking a substantial shift from Germany's previous welcoming stance toward immigrants and refugees.
Watch clip answer (00:11m)Al Jazeera English
02:08 - 02:19
How do immigrants with Afghan roots feel about the rising anti-migrant sentiment in Germany?
An Afghan immigrant in Germany expresses profound sadness about collective condemnation when individuals commit wrongdoing, stating 'I find it extremely sad that we are all being condemned if one of us does something wrong.' Despite these challenges, they maintain cultural pride, affirming 'I am proud of my Afghan roots.' The immigrant emphasizes the importance of recognizing individual differences rather than stereotyping entire communities, concluding that 'Not all people are the same.' This perspective highlights the emotional impact of growing anti-migrant sentiment on those with immigrant backgrounds in Germany's changing political landscape.
Watch clip answer (00:08m)Al Jazeera English
01:59 - 02:08
Why is the AfD considered Germany's biggest danger?
According to Mayor Al Shabel, the AfD poses Germany's greatest threat because it functions as a fascist party with a dangerous political strategy. The party deliberately simplifies complex societal issues by scapegoating migrants, blaming them for the country's problems. This approach creates division and fosters xenophobia within German society. The rising normalization of anti-immigrant sentiments represents a concerning trend that threatens Germany's cultural diversity and social cohesion as the political landscape shifts toward stricter immigration policies.
Watch clip answer (00:11m)Al Jazeera English
00:41 - 00:53
How is immigration impacting Germany's election campaign?
Immigration policy has become a dominant force in Germany's election campaign, with calls for tougher measures coming not just from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party but increasingly from mainstream politicians as well. The AfD appears to be benefiting most from this political shift according to polls, capitalizing on public concerns about immigration control. This trend has prompted questions about how long the political 'firewall' against working with the far right will remain intact. The growing prominence of immigration as a campaign issue reflects broader tensions about national identity and border security in German politics.
Watch clip answer (00:20m)Al Jazeera English
01:17 - 01:38