ANNA SCHNEIDER: “Warning about political content is a political refusal to work”

ANNA SCHNEIDER: “Warning about political content is a political refusal to work”
The discussion about migration in Germany is characterized by “restraint and warnings”, explained WELT chief reporter Anna Schneider. Political actors warned against a “populization” of the topic, but this is often perceived as an evasive manoeuvre. Schneider criticizes that this attitude gives the impression that citizens are being denied the opportunity to deal with the issue objectively. “Warnings about political content are a kind of refusal to work,” says Schneider.
Syrian refugees are currently the focus of attention: Jens Spahn's proposal to pay a bonus of 1,000 euros for voluntary return to Syria triggered controversial reactions. In countries such as Austria, however, this practice has long been established. There, the government actively plans repatriations and deportations, while in Germany the debate often fails due to political sensitivity.
Schneider warns that migration is not just an “overarching issue”, but also affects key areas such as the welfare state and security. In view of the fact that many Syrian refugees receive citizens' benefits, it is understandable that the working population is pushing for solutions. The low number of deportations in particular, despite a clear legal basis, is contributing to resentment.
For Schneider, this demonstrates the need for an open and objective debate. She refers to Austria