germany’s border policy faces a critical overview following a court ruling, sparking debate about border control effectiveness. Federal Interior Minister Dobrindt and chancellor Merz are determined too uphold stricter measures, even as doubts emerge within the SPD. Simultaneously occurring, a Left Party proposal for reduced working hours during heat waves gains traction, addressing climate crisis’s social impact on outdoor and office workers. the Justice Minister champions a minimum age for social media use, advocating for children’s protection and improved well-being. Rail traffic in Singen resumes after a freight train derailment. News Directory 3 is keeping a close watch on these dynamic developments. Discover what’s next as Germany navigates these pressing issues.
germany Reviews Border Policy, Considers Heat Relief, Social Media Age
Updated June 10, 2025
Germany is facing scrutiny over its border policy following a recent court decision to halt rejections at teh border.Despite the ruling, Federal Interior Minister alexander Dobrindt and chancellor Friedrich Merz want to maintain stricter border controls. However, Matthias Miersch, a leader in the SPD, expressed doubt that the current approach is lasting.
A recent Insa survey indicated that 64 percent of respondents support the government’s stance, while 23 percent disagree. Uli Grötsch, a federal police commissioner, voiced concerns about the discrepancy between the executive and judicial branches, emphasizing the need for clarification.
As parts of Germany brace for temperatures reaching 86 degrees Fahrenheit, Jan van Aken, leader of the Left Party, is advocating for reduced working hours during heat waves. Van Aken proposes cutting daily hours by 25 percent at 79 degrees Fahrenheit and by 50 percent at 86 degrees Fahrenheit. He emphasized the climate crisis’s social impact, particularly on those working outdoors or in overheated offices, and urges the government to implement measures by july 2025, including breaks, remote work options, and sun protection.
While the Greens support adapted working time regulations, the Union and AfD have rejected the proposal. Marc Biadacz, a CDU/CSU spokesperson, deemed the idea “unrealistic and hardly economically viable.”
In other news, Germany’s Justice Minister is pushing for a minimum age for social media use to protect children’s privacy and promote healthy progress. The minister believes this would reduce bullying and improve concentration and social interaction. Australia has already implemented a similar ban for those under 16, and the EU is discussing the issue.
Additionally, rail traffic in Singen has returned to normal after a freight train derailment caused disruptions for about a week. Deutsche Bahn reported that the first trips on tuesday morning proceeded as planned.
What’s next
The debate surrounding Germany’s border policy and potential adjustments to labour laws during heat waves are expected to continue. Discussions on social media age restrictions will also likely progress at both the national and EU levels.
