Despite the incoming CDU/CSU-SPD coalition’s pledge to halt federal resettlement programs, the outgoing German government is pressing ahead with fresh waves of migration—flying in more Afghan and Sudanese nationals just weeks before stepping down.
On April 16, a charter flight landed in Leipzig carrying 138 Afghans as part of the Foreign Ministry’s ongoing admission initiative. Two more flights are slated to follow before the end of the month.
Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock confirmed that nearly 36,000 Afghans have already arrived under the current program, with an additional 2,600 expected in the near future.
But Afghanistan isn’t the only focus. Reports also reveal that 170 Sudanese nationals are waiting in Cairo to be flown to Germany. They’re scheduled to arrive in Hanover on April 25.
These transfers come despite mounting public scrutiny over resettlement costs and growing concerns around security. Critics argue that the outgoing coalition, now on its way out of power, lacks the democratic mandate to push forward such decisions.
Adding to the controversy, critics point to recent incidents involving Afghan migrants linked to violent crimes and extremist activity. The debate over migration has remained one of the hottest flashpoints in German politics, and these latest developments are sure to fuel it further.
For the incoming government, the clock is ticking to assert control—and either end or overhaul a resettlement system now on autopilot.
