When it comes to news stories on refugees and migrants in Europe, chances are the stories are discussing the situation in either France or Germany. Germany in particular has been making headlines in recent years due to all of their progressive actions taken towards helping the refugees adjust to their country. Whether it involves citizens taking food and clothing to shelter, or universities providing free education, no other country can boast the same hospitable attitude towards the refugees.
However, the situation is starting to change as attacks carried out by migrants continue to plague the nation. Chancellor Angela Merkel has begun to pivot in her stance towards accepting more refugees; she has vowed to once again attempt to push to send failed asylum seekers out of the country. Following the recent attack in Berlin in which a trucker who had been denied asylum hit and murdered twelve people and injured many more, it is clear that Chancellor Merkel’s new position is a reflection of what the citizens of Germany want. This comes as no surprise, seeing how it follows the pattern of nationalistic attitudes many nations are taking now. It is interesting to see Merkel’s diplomatic approach to the situation though; she was quoted as saying “Those who have no residency status must be returned to their homeland, but that also demands of us that we concern ourselves with the problems of these countries and find solutions that are in our mutual interest.” This is a smart thing for her to say, as she is clearly trying to appeal to both people who want the refugees out and those who want to help them, but for those who want to help it is not as much of a win. The countries the refugees are coming from, mainly war-torn Syria, are in absolutely no condition at the present moment to have people come back, and there is not much Germany can do about it. So while the words Merkel are saying may sound nice, it is simply not possible in the near future.