German Chancellor Merz backtracks

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has backtracked following reactions and protests against his remarks targeting immigrants, in which he said, "There is still a problem with the image of the city." Speaking in London, the capital of the UK, where he was attending the Western Balkans Summit, Merz clarified that those creating problems with the city's image were immigrants who do not follow the rules applicable in Germany, and who have no right of residence or employment.

Merz stated, "Immigrants who do not have permanent residency, who do not work, and who do not follow the rules applicable in Germany cause problems. Many of these people also shape the public image in our cities. For this reason, many people in Germany and other European Union countries—and this is not just true for Germany—are afraid to walk in public spaces. This situation also applies to train stations, subways, and some parks. This situation affects entire neighborhoods and also causes major problems for our police," he said.

"WE CANNOT DO WITHOUT THEM"

Chancellor Merz, who criticized immigrants in a statement two weeks ago and clarified his meaning today, emphasized that Germany will continue to need migration in the future, especially for its labor market. Merz said, "This is true for Germany as well as for all countries of the European Union. We need this. People with an immigrant background are an indispensable part of our labor market even today. We can no longer do without them. It does not matter where they come from, what the color of their skin is, or whether they are first, second, third, or fourth generation living and working in Germany," he said.

Merz also noted that they would address the European Union's migration policy at the summit of heads of state and government to be held tomorrow in Brussels, the capital of Belgium.

Two weeks ago, Merz had used the phrase "There is still a problem with the image of the city" in the city of Potsdam, and following this statement, parties represented in the German parliament and civil society organizations representing immigrant backgrounds had reacted to Merz. Merz, who did not backtrack on his words at the time, was protested by thousands of people in Berlin, the capital of Germany, last Sunday and yesterday.