The government has decided to temporarily extend its border restrictions to all land borders, introducing more systematic checks on people arriving by bus, train or car. These measures aim to combat irregular migration and cross-border crime and come amid a series of terrorist attacks, including a recent knife attack in Solingen that resulted in three deaths. Germany is bordered by nine countries, and the restrictions could result in slower transit due to checks. The new restrictions are set to last for an initial period of six months and can last for a maximum of two years if there is a particular security threat. The new restrictions impact borders with Belgium, Denmark, France, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. Previously, restrictions and border controls had affected Austria, Czech Republic, Poland and Switzerland. The restrictions have also drawn criticism from neighbouring countries and experts for undermining EU unity and the Schengen Agreement. 

Sources: Deutsche Welle (1), Deutsche Welle (2), Cable News Network  

On 30 July, the Federal Constitutional Court approved an electoral reform that foresees downsizing the Bundestag (parliament), but overturned changes that would disproportionately affect smaller parties. It ruled that parties winning three or more constituencies, even if they receive less than 5 per cent of the vote (threshold to enter Bundestag), should still be entitled to proportional representation in the Bundestag. The Bundestag will shrink from 736 to 630 members. The 2021 national election resulted in a record 736 Bundestag members, exceeding the size of the European Parliament. The ruling parties believe the reform will save at least EUR 310 million per legislative period and enhance efficiency.

Bundesverfassungsgericht, Politico, Euronews, Euractiv

With 374 votes in favour, 251 against, and 11 abstentions, the Bundestag (lower chamber of the federal parliament) passed a new law that enables transgender and non-binary individuals to change their legal documents to align with their gender through a self-determination-based administrative process. Previously, a court decision and two expert reports were required  for the legal gender change. The change was welcomed since the old process was described as complicated and degrading. The applications to request change in gender entry and first names will be possible from 1 August 2024.  

Sources: The Federal Government of Germany, Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Human Rights Watch

On 19 January, the German Bundestag (lower house of parliament), passed a law aimed at reducing the time required to obtain German citizenship from eight to five years for immigrants living legally in the country. In cases of a high level of integration such as special achievements in education, work, or language skills, this period is further shortened to three years. Dual citizenship will also be allowed. Parents can claim citizenship for German-born children if at least one parent has been a legal resident for five years. The law, proposed by Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s centre-left socially liberal coalition, received 382 votes in favour, 234 votes against, and 23 abstentions. The main opposition parties, the Christian Democrats and the Christian Social Union, along with the far-right party Alternative for Germany, voted against. The law seeks to provide integration incentives, bring more skilled workers and help relieve labor shortages. It was passed by the Bundesrat (upper house) on 2 February and is now awaiting signatures from Chancellor Olaf Scholz and President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, before entering into force three months later.

Sources: Bundestag plenary minutes, Deutsche Welle, Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community