Sawsan Chebli, a Social Democrat (SPD) politician, has ignited controversy with an Instagram post addressing migration and shifting demographics in Germany. Her comments suggest that demographic changes will empower migrants politically, sparking comparisons to the “Great Replacement” theory often discussed on the political right.
In her post, Chebli, a former Berlin State Secretary with Palestinian roots, encouraged migrants to stay in Germany despite what she described as growing xenophobia. She wrote, “It is incomprehensible that we have come this far. Please don’t give up! It is your country too. Demographics will create facts. Get involved, raise your voice—even if they don’t want you to.”
She criticized recent actions by Germany’s populist-right AfD (Alternative for Germany) party, including a controversial flyer campaign in Karlsruhe distributing fake “deportation tickets,” which the media claims targeted migrants. Chebli also expressed concern over proposals from the Christian Democrats (CDU) and Christian Socialists (CSU) that could strip recently naturalized migrants of citizenship if they commit two crimes.
Chebli argued that Germany’s current political climate feels unsafe for many, citing the rise of the AfD and increasing right-wing rhetoric. “The debate about citizenship is reminiscent of the darkest of times: who belongs? Who doesn’t? A distinction is made between German blood and non-German blood,” she wrote.
Her remarks drew sharp criticism. Manuel Ostermann, deputy chairman of the Federal Police Union, challenged her on X (formerly Twitter), demanding clarification. “What exactly do you want to express here? Are you threatening the people living in Germany? Or is this post a fake?” he asked, while Bild reporter Julian Röpcke accused her of echoing the very “racial ideology” she criticizes in the AfD.
The discussion about demographics has reignited debates around the “Great Replacement” theory, initially coined by French author Renaud Camus. The theory posits that non-European populations are gradually replacing native Europeans due to immigration and shifting birthrates. Camus has described it as a defining phenomenon of modern times, pointing to societal changes and cultural substitution as key indicators.
While right-wing voices warn of drastic political and social consequences for native Europeans, left-wing commentators often highlight the positive potential of demographic shifts. Chebli’s remarks reflect this perspective, as she noted that Germany’s growing migrant population, many of whom are becoming naturalized citizens, are likely to support pro-migration, left-leaning parties.
This trend has already begun reshaping German politics. Newly naturalized migrants have a strong incentive to vote for parties that advocate looser immigration policies, which may enable more of their relatives and compatriots to join them in Germany. Chebli’s post underscores the ongoing debate over the political and cultural implications of these demographic changes, drawing both praise and fierce criticism.
