Germany’s immigration levels have reached an unsustainable peak, warns Berlin Police Chief Barbara Slowik, as migrant-related violent crime surges and resources are stretched thin. In an interview with RBB, Slowik expressed that the current situation is no longer affordable, both financially and socially, calling for a more comprehensive response to address rising incidents involving immigrants.
Slowik’s remarks come amid a 5.5% increase in Germany’s crime rate this year. Non-German suspects account for a significant share, rising by 17.8% compared to a minimal 1% increase among German citizens. The recent spike in migrant-related crime has led officials to push for reforms to restore public confidence in the police force.
Berlin’s Interior Senator Iris Spranger is proposing measures to bolster police powers, including granting access to encrypted communications, biometric data, and traffic records to help prevent crime and terrorism. These tools, part of an expanded General Security and Order Act, aim to address growing concerns over public safety by providing officers with enhanced monitoring capabilities.
Slowik advocated for a long-term solution by integrating immigrants into Germany’s democratic values, beginning in early childhood education. This, she argued, is essential to foster law-abiding citizenship and secure Germany’s future. Additionally, she suggested a dedicated facility to house young migrant offenders and provide targeted intervention—although no concrete plans for such a facility currently exist.
With naturalizations in Berlin tripling due to new citizenship rules, Germany faces increasing pressure to adapt its immigration policies. The recent citizenship law allows foreigners to apply after just five years of residence, contributing to the demographic shift that some believe impacts public safety and social harmony.
As Berlin faces mounting challenges, Slowik’s warnings highlight a growing urgency for policies that prioritize security and social cohesion in response to Germany’s evolving immigration landscape.