Last week, the German Bundestag has voted in favor of stricter immigration laws, a decision that some are calling a historical turning point. CDU leader Friedrich Merz brought two motions to the floor, proposing a five-point plan that includes permanent border controls, stricter entry requirements, and even detention centers for those awaiting deportation. The motion narrowly passed with 348 votes in favor and 345 against—sparking intense debate across Germany.
But what does this actually mean? Well, the motion itself is not a law, so it isn’t legally binding. However, with Germany heading into elections in 2025 and the CDU leading the polls, the political landscape is shifting. If the CDU gains power, we could see a significant tightening of immigration and citizenship policies.
The vote also raised concerns about mainstream parties aligning with the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD). For years, Germany’s democratic parties have followed a ‘firewall’ policy—refusing to cooperate with extremist groups. But with the CDU now voting alongside the AfD, Chancellor Scholz has called it an ‘unforgivable mistake’ and warned that Germany’s political future is at stake.