The Humanist Association of Germany – Federal Association criticizes the draft law intended by Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt to suspend family reunification for persons entitled to subsidiary protection, which is being discussed by the Federal Cabinet today. This measure blatantly contradicts the fundamental values of an open and humane society.
“A society that no longer understands the protection of families as a universal right loses its moral orientation,” explains Katrin Raczynski, spokesperson for the board of the Humanist Association of Germany – Federal Association.
The German government is planning to suspend family reunification for people with subsidiary protection status for at least two years. This will exclude thousands of spouses, children and parents from a life in safety – despite the fact that their relatives have already been recognized as being in need of protection.
One example illustrates the humanitarian consequences of this decision:
Mohammed, a Syrian refugee, has been living in Germany for over two years with his severely disabled son. His wife and two daughters had to return to war-torn Syria. Despite his efforts, he has not yet succeeded in bringing his family to Germany. The planned suspension of family reunification leaves him and many others in deep uncertainty.
This measure particularly affects vulnerable people. It leads to psychological destabilization and makes integration more difficult.
“What does it mean not to know for two years whether you will ever be able to embrace your children or spouse again? For many refugees, this is a bitter reality. The planned suspension of family reunification tears families apart and violates elementary human needs. Humanity is not a negotiable privilege – it is the foundation of our coexistence,” emphasizes Raczynski.
The Humanist Association of Germany – Federal Association urges the Federal Government and the members of the Bundestag to refrain from the planned tightening of the law. Instead of tearing families apart, we need accelerated procedures and humane, practicable solutions for family reunification. Family reunification is a human right – not a tactical variable of migration policy considerations.
