The Christian Social Union (CSU) is supporting the efforts of Hessian Minister-President Boris Rhein (CDU) to reintroduce the debate surrounding Germany’s “urban appearance” and migration.
CSU General Secretary Martin Huber told the “Bild” newspaper that migration issues are deeply occupying the public in Germany, adding that the topic of the city’s appearance remains crucial. Huber emphasized that the federal government has made a “migration shift” out of the wave of migration, declaring this an absolute core concern for the CSU. This agenda includes continuing deportations for those who lack the right to stay, and a firm reduction and prevention of people entering the social welfare systems. Huber stressed that citizen fears must not be dismissed or trivialized, but must be taken seriously, requiring the identification of solutions that are perceptible to all.
Herbert Reul, Minister of the Interior for North Rhine-Westphalia, also intends to restart discussions about the changing face of German cities. Reul told the newspaper that society must be able to discuss its changes openly, without hyperbole or reflexive defense mechanisms. He noted that the urban landscape has clearly changed. “We frequently see groups of young men on the streets today who do not appear to have a defined purpose,” he stated. “And we know that whoever lacks a job, perspective, or a stable place in life is more likely to descend into foolish ideas.”
While urging for differentiation, Reul cautioned against generalizing about people, saying that such naming must not amount to sweeping dismissals. He added that the public will not be fooled. Reul concluded by criticizing other political groups, stating that if the centrist parties do not address this topic, others will-and their proposed solutions are neither nuanced nor democratic.
