Impact of German Election Results on African Migrants

The recent German election results, where the CDU/CSU secured victory, raised migration concerns among African migrants, fearing policies favoring deportations. Friedrich Merz’s hardline stance on asylum reform and border control reflects ongoing anxiety yet draws some analysts to suggest opportunities for skilled migration. Future German-African relations may continue, albeit with stricter regulations for undocumented migrants.

The recent German election results have evoked anxiety among African migrants, as migration was a significant campaign topic. Many feared that a victory for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) would lead to widespread deportations of migrants. However, Friedrich Merz, leader of the center-right Christian Democratic alliance (CDU/CSU), which won the elections, has also adopted a stringent position on migration, raising concerns among the African community in Germany.

Merz has promised an extensive review of asylum policies and persistent border enforcement, particularly following a violent incident in Aschaffenburg involving an Afghan suspect already facing deportation. The CDU/CSU garnered approximately 29% of the votes, while the AfD attained 20.8%, its best performance in federal elections to date. Although the AfD may be excluded from coalition discussions, its surge has nonetheless alarmed some Africans.

Several analysts assert that the election outcome may alleviate some concerns among African migrants. Dr. Oluwole Ojewale, a foreign policy expert, noted that the election results demonstrate Germany’s capacity to curb the rise of far-right ideologies in Europe. Moreover, Germany has enacted reforms aimed at facilitating the migration of skilled African laborers, coupled with initiatives to support the voluntary return of irregular migrants, particularly from Ghana.

Nonetheless, certain individuals seeking opportunities to immigrate to Germany express concern over tightening immigration policies. Samuel Ackom from Ghana and Johnstone Kpilaakaa from Nigeria highlighted their fears of reduced avenues for work and study in Germany due to stricter border controls, affecting many Nigerians seeking educational or professional opportunities.

Despite these worries, analysts believe that the German government, led by the CDU/CSU, will remain open to collaboration with African nations. Ojewale posited that Merz’s tough stance on undocumented migrants particularly targets irregular individuals and should not be seen as detrimental to Germany’s relationship with Africa. He emphasized the importance of cooperation and development initiatives that Germany typically supports in African nations.

The German development agency GIZ has been active on the continent, targeting vulnerable populations and equipping young Africans with valuable skills. Young professionals from Africa anticipate ongoing support for these initiatives under the new administration despite their concerns regarding potential funding constraints. Jude Duncan from Accra and Qoseem Suleiman from Abuja expressed hope for continued strong bilateral relations between their countries and Germany.

Moreover, Kpilaakaa recognized Germany’s ongoing skilled labor shortage as a potential opportunity for talented African workers. The new German government’s coalition negotiations and subsequent foreign policy direction remain to be seen, but observers anticipate shifts that may better address Africa’s pressing concerns, such as conflicts in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The relations between Germany and African countries, particularly in trade, are critical. Agbai noted that Ghana heavily relies on exports to the EU, underlining the necessity for the new government to maintain favorable policies to support economic survival and trade partnerships.

The outcome of the German elections signifies a cautious stability for African migrants, with changes in migration policy anticipated under the leadership of the CDU/CSU. While fears regarding the far-right’s influence linger, the government is expected to continue fostering relationships with African nations for mutual benefit. Analysts remain hopeful that economic collaboration and support for legal migration will persist despite stricter controls on irregular immigrants.

Original Source: www.dw.com