Germany Increases Border Controls, Expands Asylum Rejections Amid Migration Policy Shift

Illegal migration presents complex challenges in various regions, driven by factors such as economic hardship, security concerns, and social pressures. In Armenia, illegal migration to EU countries is influenced by emotional decisions and often leads to precarious situations or forced deportations, despite Armenia being classified as a safe country by many European nations. Germany, under Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt, has tightened border controls and instituted policies to reject asylum seekers at the border, with Austria now supporting these measures, aiming to curb illegal migration and enhance security. Dobrindt's program also includes increasing deportations, particularly targeting migrants from countries like Afghanistan and Syria, though these policies face criticism from opposition parties concerned about legal and humanitarian impacts. In West Africa, Ghana experiences the local consequences of open borders under ECOWAS, dealing with issues such as undocumented migrants, human trafficking, and community tensions, prompting increased immigration enforcement. Meanwhile, the UK is preparing immigration reforms focused on the Skilled Worker visa route, intending to reduce net migration while maintaining protections for current visa holders.