Union Bill to Limit Immigration Narrowly Defeated
January 31, 2025
A controversial bill aimed at restricting immigration into Germany was narrowly defeated in parliament today. The “Union Law on Limiting Influx” failed to pass with a vote of 301 against and 299 in favor, with one abstention.
The bill, introduced by the right-wing Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), sought to reduce the number of asylum seekers and economic migrants entering the country. It proposed measures such as imposing stricter requirements for family reunification, making it more difficult for asylum seekers to obtain work permits, and establishing a quota system for skilled workers.
Supporters of the bill argued that it was necessary to curb the rise in immigration, which they said was putting a strain on public services and social cohesion. They cited the influx of over 1 million asylum seekers in 2015 as evidence of the need for action.
Opponents of the bill denounced it as discriminatory and inhumane. They argued that it would punish those fleeing persecution and make it harder for families to stay together. They also warned that it could damage the country’s economy by reducing the pool of skilled workers.
The vote on the bill divided parliament along party lines, with the CDU/CSU, Alternative for Germany (AfD), and Free Democratic Party (FDP) voting in favor, and the Social Democratic Party (SPD), Greens, Left Party, and South Schleswig Voters’ Association voting against.
The narrow margin of defeat is a sign of the deep divisions within German society over the issue of immigration. While many Germans are concerned about the potential impact of uncontrolled immigration, there is also a strong sense of solidarity with those fleeing war and persecution.
The defeat of the Union bill is a setback for the CDU/CSU, which had made restricting immigration a key part of its election campaign. It is also likely to fuel further debate on the issue in Germany, as political parties prepare for the next federal election in 2025.
Unionsgesetz zur Zustrombegrenzung mit knapper Mehrheit abgelehnt
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