A new ruling coalition was officially formed in Germany on April 9, 2025, paving the way for Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader Friedrich Merz to become the country’s next chancellor. The coalition unites Merz’s CDU/CSU bloc with the Social Democratic Party (SPD), signaling a significant shift in the country’s migration policy.
As part of the new agreement, the coalition partners have committed to a tougher approach to irregular migration and asylum procedures. Among the key changes outlined in the coalition agreement:
- Border Rejections: Germany will begin rejecting asylum seekers at its land borders in cooperation with neighboring EU countries.
- Suspension of Family Reunification: The existing family reunification program for individuals with temporary protection status will be suspended for two years.
- End of Federal Refugee Programs: All existing federal programs for the resettlement of refugees will be discontinued, and no new initiatives will be launched.
- Deportations to Syria and Afghanistan: Deportations of individuals deemed criminals or security threats to their countries of origin, including Syria and Afghanistan, will resume.
- Changes to Naturalization Process: Germany will reverse its previous policy of expedited citizenship for immigrants who have lived in the country for three years. Under the new policy, the minimum residency requirement will increase to five years.
In a statement, Friedrich Merz described the measures as necessary steps toward building a “strong and effective government” capable of responding to growing challenges, particularly regarding migration and public safety.
These policies mark a departure from previous more liberal immigration reforms and are expected to generate significant domestic and international debate.
