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AfD Migration Policies Face Legal Barriers in Sachsen-Anhalt
The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in Sachsen-Anhalt has proposed a sweeping “migration policy turnaround” in its 2026 election government programme, including many stringent measures against migration and asylum seekers. However, analyses indicate that around two-thirds of these proposed measures would be legally impossible to implement under current German and EU law. This includes calls to abolish asylum rights and change the status of protected migrants, which lie outside the jurisdiction of the federal state of Sachsen-Anhalt [Source 1][Seed Article].
The AfD’s agenda notably proposes an “expulsion and remigration offensive,” aiming to drastically reduce migration by targeting especially “culture-foreign” migration. Despite the party’s strong rhetoric, much of migration and asylum law is governed at the federal or EU level, limiting Sachsen-Anhalt’s ability to enact such policies independently [Source 2][Source 4].
Practical Implications for Expats and Migrants
For expats, international students, and foreign workers living in Sachsen-Anhalt, the AfD’s proposals could raise concerns regarding their legal status and future rights within the state. However, many restrictions promised by the AfD, such as abolishing the subsidiary protection status, are beyond the legal competence of the state government and would require changes at the federal constitutional level, which is unlikely to be achievable quickly or easily [Source 1][Source 4].
That said, the AfD aims to increase deportations and introduce compulsory work for asylum seekers during their residence, as well as plans to enforce stricter citizenship policies. These measures could translate into more rigorous administrative procedures for migrants and potential increases in bureaucratic hurdles. Expats should remain informed about administrative changes, especially in work authorization and residency rights [Source 5][Source 6].
Limited Scope of AfD’s Power and Wider Political Context
While the AfD leads polls for the Sachsen-Anhalt state election, its actual power to implement radical migration policies is constrained. Many of their demands fall outside the remit of a state government and would require federal legislation or constitutional amendments. This has led experts to caution that some of the party’s promises are more political signaling than achievable policies [Seed Article][Source 7].
Meanwhile, many local businesses and migrant communities have expressed unease, with protests and temporary business closures in Magdeburg highlighting fears about the impact on social cohesion and the local economy. Researchers warn that a drop in migration could negatively affect economic growth in the region [Source 3].
What Expats Should Do Now
Given the ongoing political debates, expats and migrants in Sachsen-Anhalt should monitor the election outcomes closely and seek up-to-date information from official sources regarding any changes in migration, residency, and work regulations. Consulting legal advice or migration support organisations may be prudent if new laws affecting their status are passed.
The AfD’s policy proposals underline the importance for foreigners living in the region to stay informed of their rights and any new obligations, particularly concerning passport issuance, employment opportunities, and protection under asylum laws, given the party’s intention to tighten policies on these fronts [Source 5][Source 6].
For more details on these developments, readers can refer to the full seed article here: Tagesschau [Seed Article].
