The Justice Ministry of Baden-Württemberg has proposed expanding the confiscation of valuables from asylum seekers arriving without identification.
Under the plan, they would be allowed to keep only €200, with any excess funds covering procedural costs.
State Secretary of Justice Siegfried Lorek (CDU) stated that enforcing this policy consistently would deter fraudulent claims and reduce arrivals. He pointed to Denmark’s model, where asylum seekers’ valuables over €1,300, including jewelry and watches, can be seized.
Justice Minister Marion Gentges (CDU) also supports a Danish-style reform, including limiting legal appeals for rejected asylum seekers and offering cash incentives for voluntary departure.
The Refugee Council of Baden-Württemberg criticized the proposal, arguing that asylum is a fundamental right and should not be tied to financial costs.
