Asylum Requests in Germany Decreased 34 Percent in 2024

Berlin hardened its stance on immigration following a surge in arrivals and stabbings committed by asylum-seekers.

Issa Al H., accused of a knife attack in Soligen on Aug. 23, is escorted by police in Karlsruhe, Germany, on Aug. 25, 2024. Heiko Becker/Reuters

Asylum applications in Germany fell by 34 percent last year, the interior ministry said.

Public anxiety over migration has become a political hot topic in Germany as it approaches its February elections, following violent incidents involving immigrants, which have led to a significant shift in policy