Protests Erupt Across Germany Against Chancellor Merz's Migration Comments

Nationwide Outcry Follows Chancellor's Remarks

Protests have continued across Germany, with thousands taking to the streets to voice their opposition to Chancellor Friedrich Merz's recent comments on urban migration. A notable demonstration in Hamburg saw approximately 2,000 people gather, while a larger protest in Berlin drew around 5,000 demonstrators. The public outcry follows Merz's statements linking irregular migrants to issues within German cities and advocating for increased deportations.

Controversial Statements on 'Urban Cityscape'

Chancellor Merz's controversial remarks, made in the context of discussing the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, characterized irregular migrants as a 'problem in the cityscape'. He asserted that 'many citizens recognize the issue, particularly after dark', and emphasized his government's commitment to changing the situation through expanded deportation protocols. Merz further fueled the controversy by suggesting the public should 'Ask your children, ask your daughters, ask your friends and acquaintances. Everyone confirms that this is a problem, at least after dark.'

Political and Public Backlash Intensifies

The Chancellor's comments have drawn sharp criticism from across the political spectrum and from civil society. Opposition parties, including the Greens and the Left Party, condemned Merz's rhetoric as discriminatory and comparable to far-right anti-immigrant language. They accused him of adopting extremist positions and demanded apologies to migrant communities. In a significant public response, a petition launched under the slogan 'We are the daughters' garnered over 120,000 signatures within 24 hours, directly challenging Merz's 'ask your daughters' comment.

Merz Clarifies Position Amidst Criticism

Following the widespread backlash, Chancellor Merz attempted to clarify his remarks. He stated that his criticism was directed at 'illegal foreigners who don't follow the rules' and not at all migrants who contribute to German society. Speaking on the sidelines of the Western Balkans Summit in London, Merz praised migrants for their contributions to Germany and underscored the country's ongoing need for immigration to support its labor market. He reiterated that the 'problem in the cityscape' referred to those without permanent residence status who do not work and fail to abide by German rules.