Germany Expands List of Safe Countries, Streamlining Asylum Process
Germany’s coalition government has taken a significant step toward accelerating the asylum process by designating Georgia and Moldova as safe countries of origin. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser’s bill, which won approval, aims to expedite the handling of asylum applications and facilitate swifter deportations for those whose petitions are rejected.
According to data from the ministry, an overwhelming 99.9% of asylum applications from both Georgia and Moldova were turned down in 2022 and the first half of 2023. These two nations, combined, account for over a tenth of the total number of rejected applications. Last year alone, Germany received 8,865 asylum requests from Georgians and 5,218 from Moldovans.
The ministry’s definition of safe countries of origin encompasses those where citizens generally do not face state persecution and are afforded protection by the government. However, human rights organization Pro Asyl has expressed reservations about this decision. They highlight concerns related to security threats posed by the Russian occupation of certain territories within these countries, as well as issues surrounding the rule of law, LGBTIQ+ rights, and press freedom. The organization underlines that while Georgia has enacted laws against discrimination and hate crimes, LGBT+ rights groups assert that there is insufficient protection provided by law enforcement officials, and homophobia remains prevalent in this socially conservative South Caucasus nation.
Germany’s move to add Georgia and Moldova to its list of safe countries of origin aims to achieve a more efficient asylum process. However, the decision has generated debate, with critics raising concerns over the potential impact on individuals seeking refuge from these regions. The inclusion of these countries has triggered discussions regarding the underlying geopolitical factors, human rights considerations, and the balance between adhering to streamlined procedures and ensuring comprehensive protections for those in need.
