Border controls until March 2026: What does that mean for Frankfurt/Oder?

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Frankfurt (Oder) will discuss border controls and their consequences with politicians and those affected in the Oder Tower on September 23rd, 2025.

Frankfurt (Oder) diskutiert am 23.09.2025 Grenzkontrollen und deren Folgen mit Politikern und Betroffenen im Oderturm.
Frankfurt (Oder) will discuss border controls and their consequences with politicians and those affected in the Oder Tower on September 23rd, 2025.

Border controls until March 2026: What does that mean for Frankfurt/Oder?

The current border controls on the German-Polish border concern not only politicians, but also citizens in everyday life. It will remain the same until March 2026: controls will continue to be maintained, and this is already having a noticeable impact on many people in the region. These regulations not only affect commuters and students, but also entrepreneurs who rely on the rapid movement of goods. Frankfurt/Oder reports that the controls have been extended several times by the German and Polish sides, which is viewed critically by many.

There is a particular question about the duration of these measures. The discussion about the controls will be discussed in detail at a citizens' talk on September 23, 2025 at 8:15 p.m. in the Oderturm in Frankfurt/Oder. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and entry is free.

Who is behind the controls?

Behind the ongoing controls is a transport policy that is largely shaped by Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU). According to a statement from the Federal Ministry, 3,000 additional federal police officers are now working on border duty, which is driving the workload for existing staff to unprecedented heights. Trade unionists warn of overwork and increasing sickness among civil servants ( daily news ).

The border controls are intended not only to reduce irregular migration, but also to ensure that no people come into the country with outstanding arrest warrants. In the first few weeks after the stricter measures, 739 people were turned back at the border, 51 of whom were asylum seekers. This tactic is leading to a decline in asylum applications as the federal government plans a new migration policy ( ZDF ).

The look into the future

The forecasts for future migration in Germany show a further decrease in the number of asylum seekers. In the first quarter of 2025, initial applications are 46% less than in the previous year. The federal government sees this as a success of its policy. A decline has been noted, particularly through cooperation with third countries and a targeted reduction in irregular entries. The number of illegal entries fell significantly in 2024 ( ZDF ).

Nevertheless, the level of criticism remains high: several parties and also the population question the ethical basis and effectiveness of these measures. Personal stories from those affected by the extended controls continue to emerge, and on September 23, 2025 there will be an opportunity to address these concerns directly at the discussion event.