Germany announced new border controls in response to growing concerns over irregular migration and security threats, particularly from Islamist extremism. The measures, set to begin on September 16, 2024, will last for six months and apply to all of Germany’s land borders, according to a statement from the interior ministry on Monday.

The decision comes as Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s government faces increasing pressure from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which has capitalized on public anxiety over immigration. The AfD recently won a state election in Thuringia, marking the first time a far-right party has done so since World War II. The party’s rise has been fueled by recent incidents, including deadly knife attacks where the suspects were asylum seekers. One such attack in Solingen, which resulted in three deaths, was claimed by the Islamic State group.

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser emphasized that the new controls are part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen internal security and combat irregular migration. “We are strengthening internal security and continuing our hard line against irregular migration,” Faeser said.

Germany’s decision to impose tighter border controls follows a series of similar measures implemented in recent years. The country had already increased surveillance at its borders with Poland, the Czech Republic, Switzerland, and Austria, leading to the return of 30,000 migrants since October 2023. Additionally, Germany has resumed deportations of convicted Afghan criminals, despite earlier suspensions due to concerns over human rights under the Taliban regime.

The move has sparked concerns about its impact on European unity. Under EU rules, Schengen Area countries can only introduce border checks as a last resort to address internal security threats. Austria has already indicated that it will not accept migrants turned away by Germany, potentially complicating the situation.

As Germany gears up for a federal election next year, the tightening of border controls reflects a broader effort by Scholz’s government to regain public confidence in its handling of immigration. The issue remains a top concern for voters, particularly in states like Brandenburg, which will hold elections in two weeks.