Merkel stands by 'we can manage' as Germany shifts migration policy
Angela Merkel revisits one of the most emblematic declarations of her leadership: "We can manage". The former Chancellor of Germany continues to defend her migration policy, although her successor is preparing a much more restrictive approach towards migrants, according to "Deutsche Welle".
Angela Merkel still defends her migration policy, which she implemented during the migration crisis in 2015, when hundreds of thousands of migrants arrived in Germany, posing a huge challenge for the country, notes "Deutsche Welle".
Merkel, speaking at the Evangelical Congress in Hanover, recalled her famous words "we can manage", which became a hallmark of her approach to the crisis.
"I didn't say then that I could handle it," emphasised Merkel. "I was sure that there were many people in Germany who would help in such an emergency. And they were, and we can be proud of that. Let's not let that be taken away from us," she said.
Merkel acknowledged that while Germany welcomed a large number of migrants, there is a clear need for improved migration management, particularly in terms of returning individuals who are not legally entitled to stay. She also emphasised that those who arrived at the country's borders were not rejected but were granted entry.
Germany's new migration policy
Merkel's statements contrast with the plans of her successor, Friedrich Merz, who promises a more restrictive migration policy. Merz, the leader of the CDU, plans to strengthen border controls and increase deportations. The new government, set to take office soon, intends to intensify border controls from the first day.
Thorsten Frei, the future head of the Chancellery, announced that "anyone who tries to enter Germany illegally must expect that the German border will be the end of the road from 6 May." The new government plans to expand and intensify border controls in Germany.
