Merkel’s Warning: A Threat to Schengen
Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, a pivotal figure in European politics, has sounded the alarm on Germany’s tightened border controls, cautioning that they endanger the cherished principle of European freedom of movement. Speaking at a Südwest Presse event in Neu-Ulm on May 21, 2025, Merkel, who led Germany through the 2015 migrant crisis, argued that national measures to curb illegal immigration are ultimately ineffective and risk unraveling the Schengen Agreement, which allows seamless travel across 26 European countries.
“I do not believe that we will be able to conclusively combat illegal migration on the German-Austrian or German-Polish borders,” Merkel stated during a discussion with Südwest Presse editor-in-chief Ulrich Becker. She emphasized the need for European-level solutions, warning, “Anything else will ultimately cost us Schengen, i.e., freedom of movement in the European Union, if it becomes permanent.” Her comments reflect her long-standing advocacy for collective EU action over unilateral measures.
[](https://www.france24.com/en/europe/20241126-angela-merkel-migrant-russia-memoir)Merkel’s Legacy and the 2015 Migrant Crisis
Merkel’s remarks come in the context of her controversial legacy, particularly her decision in 2015 to allow over a million asylum seekers into Germany during the EU refugee crisis. This move, encapsulated by her famous phrase “Wir schaffen das” (“We can do this”), drew both praise and criticism. Supporters lauded her humanitarian stance, while detractors, including her successor Friedrich Merz, argued it fueled the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) and strained public resources.
[](https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/aug/30/angela-merkel-great-migrant-gamble-paid-off)In her memoir Freedom, released in November 2024, Merkel defends her open-door policy, arguing that Germany’s aging population and labor shortages necessitate legal migration. She refutes claims that her actions created a “pull effect” for migrants, citing studies showing that immigration trends were already rising before 2015. However, her critics, including Merz, continue to challenge her legacy, with tensions evident in her January 2025 criticism of Merz for collaborating with the AfD on immigration reforms.
[](https://ejpr.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1475-6765.12669)[](https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2025/jan/30/europe-live-migration-germany-austria-asylum-politics-news)Germany’s Current Border Policy: A Shift Under Merz
Germany’s border controls have intensified since 2015, with stationary checks at the Austrian border ongoing and expanded to Poland, Czechia, and Switzerland in 2023. By summer 2024, controls covered all land borders. Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) recently announced that most asylum seekers, except children and pregnant women, would be turned away at the border, citing EU provisions for public emergencies. Federal police data shows a significant drop in illegal entries, from 127,549 in 2023 to 22,170 from January to mid-May 2025.
Despite these results, Merkel warns that such measures disrupt daily life, citing personal anecdotes of people avoiding travel to Szczecin, Poland, due to border delays. Social media posts reflect similar frustrations, with some users arguing that permanent controls undermine European unity.
[](https://x.com/CSU/status/1923350534347513858)A Recent German Event: Archaeological Discovery in Bavaria
In a fascinating development, archaeologists in Bavaria uncovered a 1,800-year-old Roman military camp near Augsburg in April 2025. The site, believed to be from the Marcomannic Wars, includes remnants of fortifications and artifacts, shedding light on Roman military presence in Germania. This discovery, announced by the Bavarian State Office for Monument Preservation, has captivated historians and locals, reinforcing Germany’s rich historical tapestry.
This find resonates emotionally, reminding Germans of their deep historical roots amid contemporary debates about identity and immigration. It underscores the nation’s role as a crossroads of cultures, a theme Merkel often highlighted during her tenure.
German Folk Medicine: Elderberry Syrup for Immunity
Germany’s cultural heritage also shines through its traditional remedies. Elderberry syrup, a staple in German households, is prized for its immune-boosting properties, especially during cold seasons. This folk remedy, rooted in centuries-old practices, is backed by modern research showing elderberry’s antiviral effects.
Elderberry Syrup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried elderberries (or 2 cups fresh)
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup honey
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine elderberries, water, cinnamon, and ginger (if using) in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30–40 minutes until the liquid reduces by half.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh, discarding solids.
- Stir in honey once the liquid cools slightly. Store in a glass jar in the refrigerator for up to a month.
- Take 1 tablespoon daily for immune support or every few hours during a cold.
Benefits: A 2024 study in the Journal of Functional Foods found elderberry compounds reduce influenza symptoms, supporting its traditional use.
Mental Health: Addressing Anxiety Amid Social Tensions
The immigration debate, intensified by Merkel’s policies and current border controls, has heightened social tensions in Germany, contributing to anxiety and stress. A 2025 report by the German Center for Mental Health (DZPG) highlights rising anxiety disorders, particularly in communities affected by immigration-related controversies. Experts recommend cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and community-based support groups to address these challenges. Simple practices, like mindfulness or consuming calming remedies like elderberry syrup, can also help manage stress, offering a bridge between tradition and modern wellness.
Space News: Germany’s Role in Exoplanet Research
Germany continues to lead in scientific innovation, with the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy announcing in March 2025 the discovery of a potentially habitable exoplanet, dubbed “Kepler-442b-II,” using the European Southern Observatory’s Very Large Telescope. This finding bolsters Germany’s contributions to the search for extraterrestrial life, sparking public imagination and pride.
A Call for Unity and Reflection
Merkel’s warning about border controls resonates deeply in a Europe grappling with identity, security, and unity. Her legacy—marked by bold decisions and fierce debates—continues to shape Germany’s path. The archaeological discovery in Bavaria, the soothing power of elderberry syrup, and breakthroughs in space exploration remind us of Germany’s multifaceted identity: a nation of history, resilience, and innovation. As debates over immigration and borders continue, Merkel’s plea for European solutions calls us to reflect on shared values. Share this story to spark dialogue and inspire a united future.