Thousands of Rejected Asylum Seekers Disappear, Deportations Plummet in Germany

Germany is currently facing a significant challenge in managing its deportation process as thousands of rejected asylum seekers have disappeared, causing a steep decline in actual deportations. In 2023, while around 53,800 deportations were registered, many were not carried out due to individuals going into hiding or presenting medical excuses.

Key Factors Behind the Decline in Deportations

• Disappearances: Many asylum seekers vanish after receiving rejection notices, making it difficult for authorities to enforce their removal.
• Medical Certificates: An increasing number of individuals submit medical documents that delay or halt deportations, requiring thorough verification by healthcare professionals.

Challenges for German Authorities

The police and state authorities face obstacles such as:

1. Tracking and locating absconding asylum seekers who go into hiding.
2. Assessing the authenticity of medical certificates to prevent misuse as a tactic against deportation.
3. Balancing respect for humanitarian concerns with the enforcement of immigration laws.

Government and Civil Society Responses

• The government is coordinating efforts to improve tracking and deportation procedures.
• Civil society groups advocate for a humane approach that respects asylum seekers’ rights while ensuring effective implementation of immigration policies.

Overall, the issue of missing rejected asylum seekers continues to strain Germany’s immigration system. Authorities are actively seeking solutions to reduce disappearances and enhance the efficiency and fairness of deportations.

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