Germany Implements Temporary Border Controls to Tackle Irregular Migration

Germany's government has announced temporary border controls at all land borders starting September 16, aimed at curbing irregular migration and enhancing public safety. This move, spearheaded by Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, is part of a broader strategy to strengthen internal security amidst rising support for the far-right AfD party.

Germany's government has announced the implementation of temporary border controls across all land borders in an effort to address irregular migration and enhance public safety against threats like Islamist extremism. The controls will begin on September 16 and will initially last for six months, according to the interior ministry.

"We are strengthening internal security and continuing our hard line against irregular migration," stated Interior Minister Nancy Faeser. This marks a continued tough stance on migration by Germany, especially as support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) rises due to immigration concerns.

There has been heightened apprehension over immigration following recent deadly knife attacks by asylum seekers, with the Islamic State group taking responsibility for a fatal attack in Solingen last August. This issue has intensified political tensions, especially with upcoming elections in Brandenburg.

Germany, sharing over 3,700 kilometers of land borders with nine neighboring countries, could face a test of European unity with this move. Austria's Interior Minister Gerhard Karner has asserted that Austria will not accept any migrants turned away by Germany.

In response to a surge in asylum requests, Germany had already increased scrutiny at its borders with Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland last year.

(With inputs from agencies.)