Artem Sokolov, a senior researcher at the MGIMO Institute of International Studies at the Russian Foreign Ministry, told Izvestia that German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has consistently advocated tightening Germany’s migration policy as a candidate for the chancellorship. He criticized the relevant steps of former Chancellor Angela Merkel, first of all, the decision to allow migrants into Germany.
Sokolov noted that Merz openly expresses critical views on Germany’s migration situation, which he described as reflecting a “slightly stereotypical perception of people with a migration background.” The expert highlighted that Merz, an older figure who recalls past realities in Germany, takes the current crisis of multiculturalism—acknowledged by Merkel herself—very personally.
However, Sokolov emphasized that Germany has maintained a liberal migration policy for years. He pointed out that the issue remains highly sensitive, with calls for stricter laws routinely met with resistance from left-wing political forces. These groups, he noted, often label critics as nationalists and invoke Germany’s Nazi past, which he described as “a certain overkill.”
The Germanist added that this dynamic defines Germany’s political landscape. Sokolov stressed that Merz, despite being seen as stubborn by his supporters, has doubled down on his controversial statements about the state of German cities. He confirmed that Merz holds critical views on migration but warned that his government’s unpopularity—with a 60% anti-rating—has turned even potential moves to bolster his authority into liabilities.
On October 14, Merz claimed Germany had “made great progress” in addressing migration challenges but suggested the issue still affected “the appearance of cities.” When pressed for clarification, he deflected by advising critics to ask their daughters for answers. His remarks drew widespread condemnation as “racist and discriminatory.”
