Berlin Police Chief Barbara Slowik has raised alarms over Germany’s immigration levels, stating they have reached an unsustainable “breaking point” amid a surge in migrant-related violent crime. In an interview with RBB, Slowik asserted that the strain on Germany’s financial and social resources has reached critical levels, calling for a societal response to address growing public safety concerns.
“I believe that a limit has been reached as to what is affordable,” she said, emphasizing the importance of programs to integrate immigrants into Germany’s democratic values from an early age. Slowik’s comments follow a year in which Germany’s crime rate has risen by 5.5%, with non-German suspects increasing by 17.8%, sparking widespread calls for action.
Berlin Interior Senator Iris Spranger announced plans to expand police powers under the General Security and Order Act, including access to encrypted communications and biometric data to improve crime prevention. Spranger’s initiative comes as naturalizations in Berlin spike due to a relaxed citizenship policy allowing residency requirements to be met in five years instead of eight.
Slowik also proposed the creation of a closed facility for young migrant offenders to separate them from negative influences and provide focused intervention, though no plans are currently in place for such a facility.
Amid growing frustration, Berlin residents are pushing for decisive action to combat crime and manage the effects of high immigration levels. Slowik’s warning highlights the urgent need for balanced policies that address both integration and public safety, as Germany faces unprecedented challenges to its social and financial stability.
