In his analysis of the upcoming challenges for 2024, Bavaria’s Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann (CSU) described immigration as the key issue. Referring to the 60 percent increase in asylum applications in Germany compared to the previous year, he warned: “The number of arrivals has recently decreased, but that is no reason to sound the all-clear.” In addition, illegal migration must be limited immediately and effectively.
Stationary border controls necessary
Herrmann is therefore in favour of maintaining stationary border controls. Only once the EU’s external borders have been secured by effective controls can consideration be given to suspending them. “Above all, this will deter people from entering the inhumane people smuggling business,” he said. He also defended the direct rejection of asylum seekers at the border, as two thirds of asylum seekers arrived in Germany last year without first being registered in another European country. “This is a massive violation of applicable European law and also a serious threat to our security.”
According to Herrmann, the introduction of asylum border procedures at the external borders in the EU asylum compromise is of central importance, but can only be a first step. “It is now necessary to harmonise benefits for asylum seekers across Europe, taking into account the respective cost of living.” The Interior Minister also called for more migration agreements with countries of origin and transit in order to better manage immigration.
Security conference and European Championships
Herrmann also announced that concrete operational planning was already underway with regard to the Munich Security Conference in February, with tightened security measures at the conference venue and a flight restriction area. The European Football Championship is another major event that the security authorities are focussing on. A total of five matches will be played in Bavaria. “Police preparations have been in full swing for over a year,” said the Minister of State.
