Mohammad Iqbal to Welat TV: No Fears for Refugees in Germany — Recent Hype Is Pure Rhetoric Election
Welat TV – Erbil
Mohammad Iqbal, President of the German-Syrian Friendship Association, affirmed that the current narrative in Germany regarding increasing pressure on refugees is primarily election-driven propaganda, stressing that there is no real threat to the future of refugees residing in Germany.
In an interview with Walad TV on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, Iqbal stated, “The changes expected in Germany will not occur as rapidly as some believe. Moreover, government decisions in Germany are not always directly tied to whichever party is in power.” He clarified that any potential asylum rejections or repatriation efforts would only apply to those apprehended at Germany’s borders, as agreed upon by the incoming coalition parties.
These measures do not target all refugee groups living in Germany. Iqbal explained that Germany recognizes various types of residency statuses, and that the new measures under consideration apply primarily to holders of temporary protection status, rather than fully recognized refugees. “Temporary protection is not the same as formal refugee status.
The previous government was lenient in allowing family reunification for individuals under temporary protection, but current authorities are aiming for stricter implementation—though this process will take considerable time,” he added.
How Serious Is the New Government About These Policies?
Iqbal expressed doubt over the new government’s seriousness in implementing its tougher asylum policies, describing them as part of political messaging rather than imminent action. “We’ve seen similar rhetoric in the past, but in practice, the outcomes were far less severe than anticipated,” he said.
Family Reunification Still Possible
Through Work On the topic of family reunification, Iqbal noted that even if some legal channels become restricted, refugees can still bring their families if they are employed. “Those with protection status have the right to work. If they can financially support their families, they are legally allowed to bring them to Germany,” he explained. He also reassured refugees already living in Germany: “There is no reason for concern. Those who want a stable future in Germany should focus on language skills, integration, and securing employment, as work remains the most powerful tool for building a secure future here.”
Germany’s Tightening of Immigration and Asylum Policies
Earlier this month, Germany’s incoming coalition parties announced an agreement to implement stricter immigration and asylum measures, including: Blocking fast-track citizenship for well-integrated migrants Rejecting asylum applications at the border Resuming deportations to Syria Suspending family reunification for certain groups
These policy proposals, released on April 9, are part of a broader effort to curb irregular migration and reshape Germany’s approach to asylum and refugee protection.