The Human Rights Commissioner is calling on Germany to provide humanitarian visas to activists.
Summary Highlights:
1. In Germany, a human rights Commissioner advocates for simplifying visa processes to grant humanitarian visas for activists.
2. Additionally, she voiced concerns regarding the proposal to transfer asylum procedures to third nations like Rwanda.
3. Germany has implemented stricter regulations for asylum seekers while simultaneously facilitating immigration procedures for skilled laborers.
Luise Amtsberg, the Human Rights Commissioner of the Federal Government from the Greens party, has recently advocated for streamlined visa processes for activists and criticized the proposed relocation of asylum procedures.
Commissioner Amtsberg has called for simplified visa procedures for human rights activists, particularly those from countries like Russia and Iran. She emphasized the need for easier visa issuance and increased opportunities for individuals to continue their work in Germany. Amtsberg highlighted the necessity for humanitarian visas to be swiftly issued and for mechanisms allowing individuals to transition from temporary Schengen visas to secure protection statuses, commonly known as "lane change."
In addition, Amtsberg expressed concern about the plan to transfer asylum procedures to third countries such as Rwanda, labeling the entire project as legally unacceptable, detrimental in terms of domestic and foreign policy, and impractical.
Germany's status as the top EU destination for asylum seekers in 2023, with 334,000 applications received, is expected to decline this year. The implementation of the Repatriation Improvement Act, which includes measures like ending pre-announced deportations, extending asylum detention to 28 days, and granting more authority to police for searches and checks, may contribute to this decrease. Moreover, changes in benefits for asylum seekers, including longer waiting periods for welfare payments and deductions for food costs, are anticipated.
In contrast, Germany aims to enhance its attractiveness to skilled foreign workers by simplifying immigration procedures. This includes granting a one-year visa to individuals who qualify based on skills, language proficiency, and work experience to seek employment. Additionally, the income threshold has been lowered, making it easier for applicants to bring their family members along.