Germany’s decision to impose new border controls at all its land borders has sparked significant backlash from its European neighbors. The move, which took effect Monday, extends border checks beyond Germany’s existing controls with Austria, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, and Poland to include France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Denmark. The new restrictions are set to last for an initial period of six months, stirring frustration and concern among neighboring countries.

Germany’s shift in migration policy is seen as a dramatic reversal from its stance during the 2015-2016 migrant crisis, when the country, led by Chancellor Angela Merkel, welcomed over one million new arrivals. The current government under Chancellor Olaf Scholz is facing criticism from its own far-right opposition and has opted for a stricter approach. German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser has framed the new measures as essential for bolstering internal security and combating terrorism and cross-border crime.

Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk has expressed strong disapproval of the new controls, calling them unacceptable and demanding urgent consultations with all affected nations. Greece and Austria have also voiced concerns, indicating that they will not accept migrants who are rejected by Germany. This situation threatens to further strain the unity of the European Union and complicates the broader migration management within the Schengen Zone.

In response to Germany’s new policy, the Council for Migration in Germany has warned that the measures could violate EU law. The Council argues that the policy represents a dangerous shift towards populism and calls for a more evidence-based approach to migration policy across Europe. They stress the importance of maintaining a unified and legally sound approach to migration management.

The new border controls come in the wake of a fatal attack in Solingen, Germany, where a Syrian man with alleged ties to ISIS, who was scheduled for deportation, killed three people. This attack has intensified calls within Germany for stricter immigration measures. As Germany adjusts its migration policies, the impact on its neighbors and the broader European Union remains a critical concern.