Surge of Asylum Seekers in Germany, August 2015

During the last week of August 2015, German Chancellor Angela Merkel faced a significant influx of asylum seekers crossing the border, often without extensive checks. This movement marked the beginning of a broader immigration crisis in Europe.

Following this unprecedented wave, the implications for Germany and the European Union became a matter of concern. Merkel’s proclamation, “Wir Schaffen Das,” which translates to “We can do that,” essentially opened the gates for unlimited immigration into Germany, disregarding EU restrictions.

This became a rallying cry, leading people from various countries to flock to Germany, igniting a widespread immigration issue throughout Europe.

In September 2015, I met with some individuals sent to Hungary, each seeking a fresh start, often at the expense of others. Conversations revealed a mix of young men from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East who had all traveled various routes to reach Europe, with aspirations to settle in Germany.

They seemed intent on disappearing into Europe, often sending for family members after their arrival. As I interviewed several of them at the Keleti Railway Station in Budapest, I noted a few things:

They are youthful and vibrant. They know what they want. They aren’t looking to remain in conflict zones; their journey had taken them through Lebanon, Turkey, and several Balkan countries, ultimately aiming for Germany.

None expressed a desire to stay in Hungary, where authorities were keen on enforcing EU regulations, including fingerprinting and processing travel documents.

These young men, including some from Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sudan, were hopeful and traveled with smartphones and new clothes. While receiving aid, some even attempted to sell their mobile phones for a profit.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a vocal critic of mass immigration, warned that the unchecked flow of migrants could pose security risks, suggesting that it might facilitate the entry of individuals with malicious intentions.

Controversy surrounded Orban, as he faced backlash from various advocacy groups and influencers, including George Soros.

Fast forward to today, and the situation hasn’t gotten any easier. Rumors of ongoing illegal immigration persisted, as it appears many continue to seek free resources like housing and healthcare.

The numbers? Well, that’s anyone’s guess. In the UK alone, the government struggles to get a accurate count on the number of legal immigrants arriving on social care visas.

What was predicted years ago seems to be unfolding now—millions more may follow across the Mediterranean, creating a challenging future for Europe.