Germany Reinstates Border Controls, Plans Deportations

Germany's new government, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt, has reversed Angela Merkel's open border policy by joining other Schengen countries in reinstating strict internal border controls to curb irregular migration and enhance national security. The measures include deploying over 14,000 border police and instructing officers to turn away undocumented entrants at all land borders, with exceptions for children and pregnant women. The government also plans to deport certain groups, including Syrians, and suspend family reunification programs. Neighboring countries such as Switzerland and Poland have criticized the move, with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warning against actions that could leave migrants stranded and stressing the need for EU-wide solutions. The policy has sparked a broader debate about the impact on European unity and the future of the Schengen system. These developments mark a significant shift toward a tougher migration stance by Germany's conservative-led government.