Scholz seeks urgent measures following Solingen attack to counter growing German Support for AfD
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has announced a series of consultations with federal state governments and the main opposition party, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), to explore potential measures in response to last week’s attack in Solingen.
The leader of the CDU, Friedrich Merz, had suggested that each party appoint a representative to propose a series of reforms in immigration policy. However, Scholz has broadened the scope, likely aiming to include his coalition partners in the discussions as well.
The Chancellor, speaking to the media after meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, revealed that Interior Minister Nancy Faeser will soon initiate talks to negotiate measures related to the repatriation of immigrants, the fight against Islamist terrorism, and the right to carry arms.
Last Friday, a Syrian immigrant under a deportation order killed three people and injured eight others in Solingen, an attack claimed by the jihadist group Islamic State. The confessed perpetrator, Issa al H., is currently in custody.
Scholz emphasized that deportations have increased by 25% in the first half of 2024 compared to the previous year, but he acknowledged that this is not enough. He also advocated for further limiting irregular immigration, including new legal measures.
The opposition is calling for a “de facto ban” on accepting refugees from Syria and Afghanistan and for authorities to have the ability to deport rejected asylum seekers to these two countries. Additionally, they demand permanent controls at the EU’s external borders and the automatic loss of residency for refugees who travel back to their countries of origin.
