Union-led federal states call for stricter measures in migration policy

At the Minister Presidents' Conference in Leipzig, the CDU/CSU-led federal states are continuing to call for a tougher stance in the fight against irregular migration to Germany. "This is not the place for populist discussions, but for finding solutions based on the law and the possibilities," said Saxony's Minister President Michael Kretschmer (CDU) when the heads of the federal states arrived in Leipzig.

There are many instruments that can be used to tackle the migration crisis. However, the prerequisite for this is "having a common goal". After taking in so many people in recent years, the country must now drastically reduce the number. "The point is that asylum procedures can also be carried out in safe third countries outside the European Union," said Kretschmer.

Bavaria's Minister President Markus Söder (CSU) meanwhile called for "a real migration turnaround". "That means we need to reject them. If refoulement does not take place, then we will not do justice to the situation." Asylum law must also be adapted - if necessary at European level. In addition, more deportations need to be organized.

The Minister President of North Rhine-Westphalia, Hendrik Wüst, called for "answers from the political center on the matter". "If the political center is no longer able to provide answers, then you leave room for others. Conversely, we have to deliver," said the CDU politician.

In the past, the state premiers had already made decisions on migration that were ultimately implemented. These include the introduction of a payment card for asylum seekers.