Germany’s center-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU), poised to lead after next month’s elections, has proposed deporting asylum seekers convicted of two crimes. The move, framed as a crackdown on repeat offenders, has drawn criticism from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which dismissed it as ineffective posturing.
CDU General Secretary Carsten Linnemann outlined the proposal in an interview with WELT TV, advocating changes to Germany’s Residence Act. “We need to end the cycle of repeat offenders,” he asserted, referencing recent high-profile crimes like the Magdeburg Christmas market attack. Under the plan, crimes such as theft, assault, and fare evasion would trigger deportation after a second conviction, but only for those with valid residence permits.
The CDU’s migration policy overhaul extends further, with Chancellor candidate Friedrich Merz supporting deportations to unstable nations like Syria and Afghanistan. Merz argued that criminals, including those tied to Assad’s regime, should not find refuge in Germany. “We cannot allow Germany to become a safe haven for those who committed atrocities elsewhere,” he stated, calling for tighter border controls and a clearer distinction between asylum and labor migration.
AfD Chancellor candidate Alice Weidel lambasted the CDU’s proposals, accusing the party of political theater. Weidel criticized Merz for inaction despite a potential majority in the Bundestag, highlighting the CDU’s refusal to align with the AfD despite its rising popularity.
In a fiery statement, the AfD called the proposal a “CDU smokescreen” and vowed to prevent criminal migrants from entering Germany altogether. “The CDU could have implemented such measures long ago if it had supported our initiatives,” the party claimed. They questioned why deportation would only follow a second offense, arguing for immediate action against those who reject German values and commit crimes.
The AfD has gained traction, bolstered by endorsements from figures like Elon Musk, who recently declared the party as Germany’s “only chance” to address demographic and cultural shifts.
As public frustration over migration grows, the CDU’s push highlights its effort to reclaim voter trust, while the AfD continues to position itself as a hardline alternative in the escalating debate.
