The German election has raised concerns among African migrants regarding potential stricter immigration policies with the rise of the CDU/CSU and the AfD. Friedrich Merz’s planned migration reforms may affect undocumented migrants more than skilled workers. However, analysts believe that supportive ties between Germany and Africa will persist, particularly in economic cooperation and development aid.
The outcome of the recent German election has stirred concern among African migrants living in Germany. With migration emerging as a pivotal campaign issue, many feared that the success of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) would result in widespread deportations of migrants. However, Friedrich Merz, the leader of the victorious center-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU/CSU), has also adopted a stringent position regarding migration policy.
Merz’s commitment to a comprehensive overhaul of asylum regulations and enhanced border controls follows a tragic incident in Aschaffenburg, where an Afghan suspect, previously facing deportation, was involved in a deadly stabbing. The CDU/CSU secured approximately 29% of the vote, while the AfD garnered a record 20.8%. Although the AfD is expected to be excluded from coalition negotiations, its strong showing raises apprehensions among African communities.
Victoria Agbai, a Ghanaian businesswoman, expressed her anxiety over the AfD’s performance, highlighting the party’s aggressive stance against immigration and the increasing nationalism within Germany. Despite these concerns, some analysts maintain that the election results may mitigate fears among African migrants. Foreign policy analyst Dr. Oluwole Ojewale stated that Germany’s electoral outcome indicates a potential downturn for the far-right influence in the country.
Germany has recently revised its migration policies to facilitate the entry of skilled African workers while also encouraging undocumented Ghanaian migrants to return home through support from the European Union. Nonetheless, Samuel Ackom, a corporate worker from Ghana, expressed concerns that the government may impose stricter immigration controls, which could hinder potential migrants from pursuing opportunities in Germany.
Despite these worries, Ojewale reassured that Merz’s measures would primarily target irregular migrants rather than skilled workers, suggesting that Africa retains cooperative ties with Germany. He noted that Germany has historically held a globalist stance and would likely continue fostering business relationships with African nations.
Moreover, German development agencies like GIZ remain committed to supporting Africa’s socio-economic development by enhancing skill acquisition among the youth. Jude Duncan remarked on the substantial aid provided by German agencies, emphasizing the need for African leaders to collaborate on solutions addressing challenges within the continent. Similarly, Qoseem Suleiman from Nigeria expressed optimism regarding the continuation of German support.
Furthermore, Germany’s economic stability and its labor shortages in key sectors may create additional opportunities for talented African individuals seeking employment. With Friedrich Merz poised to form a new government, the direction of Germany’s foreign policy towards Africa remains uncertain, but prospects for further cooperation are anticipated.
The recent German election has significant implications for African migrants, with concerns stemming from the strong performance of the far-right AfD. While Friedrich Merz’s CDU/CSU will tighten immigration laws, analysts suggest that this will focus on irregular migrants, potentially leaving room for skilled African workers. Continued cooperation between Germany and African nations, alongside development support, is expected, despite apprehensions about stricter border controls.
Original Source: www.dw.com
