Before the vote on implementing the reform of the Common European Asylum System (GEAS), the opposition voiced sharp criticism of the plans from the Union and SPD.
Green parliamentary group chair Britta Haßelmann told the “Rheinische Post” (Friday edition) that after months of negotiations the coalition had failed to address humanitarian and constitutional concerns. She warned that the consequences of the black‑red reform would be borne mainly by children and youth, who could be housed under stricter conditions in the future. “That is unacceptable” Haßelmann added. “This coalition is doing the opposite of what we need: European solidarity, humanitarian responsibility, and order”.
The left’s deputy chair, Clara Bünger, also slammed the planned reform. She said the federal government intends to impose the most severe tightening of asylum law since the 1990s. Bünger warned that the government is using the opportunity to further isolate asylum seekers and increasingly detain them – even children. “This policy is inhumane and treats refugees like criminals rather than people who have been displaced from their homes and need protection” she said. The Left will naturally reject the law.
The Bundestag is scheduled to vote on the GEAS reform this Friday.
