Refugee helpers demand legal action against Berlin from the EU

Vienna – European refugee organizations have called on the EU Commission to initiate infringement proceedings against Germany. The current stationary border controls at German borders and the rejections of asylum seekers taking place there are “in clear contradiction to fundamental values and violate applicable EU law,” states a letter published on Thursday by the organizations, including Asylkoordination Österreich.

German actions undermine trust in the EU

The actions of the German federal government violate the rights of people who sought protection in the European Union after often long and dangerous flights, the letter states. Furthermore, the German actions undermine societal trust in the European Union as a community of law. “National unilateral actions that disregard applicable EU law fundamentally contradict the idea of the European rule of law. They strengthen far-right forces across Europe, fuel EU skepticism, and contribute to a dangerous renationalization within the Union.”

On the occasion of the 40th anniversary, the freedom of movement within the Schengen area is seriously threatened. “Border controls do not prevent people from seeking protection in the European Union, but only make flight more dangerous. In addition, they cause economic and social damage, are costly, and cannot be maintained in the long term.” The European Union must prove that it places the strength of law above the law of the stronger.

The open letter is addressed to EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner. It is signed by representatives of civil society organizations from Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Luxembourg, France, the Netherlands, Switzerland, as well as the European Council on Refugees and Exiles (ECRE). (12.06.2025)