Germany’s Left Party unveils migration reforms for Muslims ahead of elections

The party proposes a comprehensive set of migration reforms aimed at enhancing the right of Muslims and migrants

BERLIN, Germany (MNTV) — Germany’s Left Party has unveiled a comprehensive migration reform agenda that seeks to foster a more inclusive society.

The policies are believed to significantly impact the country’s Muslim and other migrant communities. 

The proposals come ahead of the snap federal elections slated for February 23.

The Left Party offers a progressive alternative to the far-right AfD, which has adopted an explicitly anti-Islam manifesto.

The party envisions creating a “democratic and social immigration society” rooted in human dignity. As part of its proposals, The Left advocates removing the Interior Ministry’s authority over migration and establishing a dedicated federal ministry for migration and participation. 

The plan includes liberalizing visa policies, allowing asylum seekers to work upon arrival, and housing migrants in apartments rather than reception centers. 

Local governments would receive funding to support integration efforts, including free nationwide language courses.

For decades, Germany’s Muslim communities have faced systemic challenges in accessing equal opportunities. The Left’s platform calls for sweeping changes to citizenship laws, granting German citizenship to all children born in the country and offering naturalization rights to residents after five years. 

Long-term residents, regardless of nationality, would also gain voting rights under the proposal.

The party’s emphasis on combating racism is notable. It proposes appointing a commissioner for Muslim life, banning racial profiling, and introducing stricter anti-discrimination measures to tackle anti-Muslim racism. 

Deportations, including for criminal offenders, would be largely prohibited, with offenders facing regular criminal proceedings in Germany instead.

On the European level, The Left rejects the EU’s controversial migration agreements and Frontex, the bloc’s border agency, calling for a civil society-led sea rescue initiative and safe, legal migration pathways. 

The party opposes asylum application processing in third countries, emphasizing that all asylum seekers deserve fair and direct access to procedures at EU borders. 

Germany recorded over 1,550 anti-Muslim hate crimes in 2024, highlighting the need for stronger protections as the Left party pushes for reforms ahead of the February 23 elections. Their proposed policies aim to address rising discrimination and foster greater equality for all communities.