In response to the recent tragic knife attack in Solingen, which left three people dead, Germany’s coalition government has announced new measures to tighten weapons laws and change asylum policies.
The decision comes just days before crucial state elections, where the government hopes these actions will prevent gains by far-right parties.
Interior Minister Nancy Faeser outlined the new policies, which include banning knives at public events such as street festivals and on long-distance public transportation. Furthermore, federal police will be given greater authority to conduct spot checks in high-crime areas and use stun guns to apprehend violent suspects.
The proposed changes also target asylum regulations, particularly in light of the Solingen attack allegedly carried out by a Syrian asylum seeker. The government plans to accelerate the deportation process for rejected asylum seekers and cut financial benefits for those who have been registered in another EU country. These measures aim to address concerns over security lapses and prevent future attacks.
Rights groups, however, have criticized the new rules, arguing that they may violate constitutional rights and disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. Despite this, Faeser reassured that no one in Germany would go hungry or be left homeless under the new policies.
The announcement has intensified the debate over migration and security in Germany, with the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party capitalizing on the incident to criticize the government’s handling of asylum and security issues. The upcoming state elections are seen as a critical test for Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s government, as the far-right is expected to perform strongly.
The coalition parties, the Social Democrats, Greens, and Free Democrats, will meet with the opposition Christian Democrats (CDU) and state representatives to discuss future changes. The CDU accuses Chancellor Scholz of losing control of the country and calls for even stricter measures.
DW, the Guardian and BBC contributed to this report.
