Human rights organization Pro Asyl has defended its involvement in the legal proceedings of three Somali individuals who successfully challenged border rejections and secured the right to enter Germany. Speaking to the Tagesspiegel, Pro Asyl’s Executive Director Karl Kopp emphasized that the three Somalis independently chose to attempt re-entry into Germany. “These three Somalis made the decision to seek entry into Germany a third time independently” Kopp stated, rejecting claims of orchestrated actions.
Pro Asyl also refuted allegations that the organization encouraged one of the individuals to conceal their age. Kopp described the accusation as a “ridiculous false claim” clarifying that records from the Federal Police already identified the individual as a minor during the second rejection, prior to Pro Asyl’s awareness of their existence.
Currently, a support network is providing assistance to the three individuals. Concern has been raised regarding the intense scrutiny they are facing from a group of journalists reportedly possessing confidential information from official sources. Kopp expressed concern that the individuals are aware their case has become a focal point for a fundamental dispute concerning Germany’s asylum policy. He highlighted the psychological toll this public attention is taking, including anxieties and panic attacks and the potential danger to family members in their country of origin.
The decision to escalate the case to the European Court of Justice depends solely on the wishes of those involved, according to Kopp. Simultaneously, Pro Asyl has appealed to the EU Commission, urging them to initiate infringement proceedings against Germany. Kopp confirmed that no new similar cases are currently being prepared and emphasized the hope that other organizations will provide legal support to individuals affected by similar rejection practices.
