Germany's Scholz gets tough on border in bid to save political future

Chancellor under pressure after series of crises

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is facing mounting pressure to take a tougher stance on immigration, as his government grapples with a series of crises that have dented his popularity.

In recent months, Germany has seen a sharp increase in the number of asylum seekers arriving from conflict zones such as Syria, Afghanistan and Ukraine.

The influx has put a strain on the country's resources and has led to growing concerns about social cohesion.

Scholz has been criticized for his handling of the crisis, with some accusing him of being too soft on immigration.

In a bid to shore up his support, Scholz has announced a series of measures to tighten border controls and reduce the number of asylum seekers entering the country.

These measures include increasing the number of border guards, stepping up deportations and making it more difficult for asylum seekers to claim benefits.

Scholz's tough stance on immigration is likely to please some voters, but it is also likely to alienate others.

Scholz's approval ratings have fallen in recent months

Scholz's approval ratings have fallen in recent months, amid growing public discontent over the government's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine and the cost of living crisis.

A recent poll found that only 35% of Germans approve of Scholz's performance as chancellor.

Scholz is facing pressure from both within his own party and from the opposition to take a tougher stance on immigration.

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has been gaining support

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has been gaining support in recent years, largely due to its anti-immigration stance.

In the 2021 federal election, the AfD won 10.3% of the vote, making it the third-largest party in the Bundestag.

Scholz's tough stance on immigration is likely to be seen as an attempt to counter the AfD's growing support.

Germany's population is ageing

Germany's population is ageing, and the country needs to attract skilled workers from abroad to fill vacancies in key sectors.

Scholz's tough stance on immigration could make it more difficult for businesses to recruit the workers they need.

The government will need to strike a balance between controlling immigration and ensuring that the country has the workers it needs to compete in the global economy.