Skip to content

tagblick

Saturday, 3 October 2026

Search

Domestic

SPD criticizes family reunification regulations as too strict

The SPD expresses criticism of the hardship regulation for family reunifications of subsidiary protection beneficiaries in Germany.

Archive photo: SPD criticizes family reunification regulations as too strict
Archive photoPhoto: Austrian Ministry of Interior · Wikimedia Commons · Public domain

A year ago, the German government decided to suspend family reunification for relatives of subsidiary protection beneficiaries. Since then, family members may only enter Germany in recognized hardship cases. This regulation has come under criticism, particularly from the SPD, which deems the requirements too restrictive.

According to reports, various SPD politicians have commented on the impacts of this regulation. They argue that the number of approved hardship applications is very low and that there are often inadequate options for family reunification. This leads to many families having to remain separated.

The SPD is now calling for a review and adjustment of the existing regulation to allow affected family members to reunite. The SPD's criticism aims to emphasize humanitarian aspects within migration policy, particularly concerning family ties.

Archive photo: SPD criticizes family reunification regulations as too strict
Archive photoPhoto: This image is a work by Wikipedia and Wikimedia Commons user C.Suthorn. When reusing, credit me as described in the Licensing information below. I would appreciate being notified ( wikimail , talk page , email , Social Media ) if you use my work outside Wikimedia. Do not copy this image illegally by ignoring the terms of the license below, as it is not in the public domain. If you would like special permission to use, license, or purchase the image please contact me to negotiate terms. More of my work can be found in my personal gallery or at my Peertube channel . A prepared attribution especially for use in Social Media and Print (newspapers, flyers, books, murals, mousepads, mugs, posters, t-shirts) can be copied here · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

The issue has gained significance in recent months, as more people seek protection in Germany due to conflicts and crises in their home countries, but face difficulties in bringing their relatives over. The SPD points out that a humane migration policy is necessary to meet the needs of individuals.

The discussion on family reunification and the related regulations is likely to remain prominent in political debates. The coalition partner has taken a clear stand on this matter, calling for the strengthening of the rights of subsidiary protection beneficiaries.