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Shocking deficiencies in deportations at Frankfurt Airport!
Church observers criticize the deportation practice at Frankfurt Airport because of serious shortcomings and humanitarian deficits.
Shocking deficiencies in deportations at Frankfurt Airport!
In Germany, several thousand people are deported to their home countries via Frankfurt Airport every year. A recently published study by church observers shows serious deficiencies in the way those affected are dealt with. According to the report, which was presented on Thursday, the processes are characterized by systematic deficits.
Last year around 4,300 people were deported from Frankfurt Airport. The observers emphasize that things were often not done properly. (Small) children were sometimes taken away at night wearing unsuitable clothing such as slippers or flip-flops. This is particularly worrying because the necessary precautions were often not taken.
Separated families, shackled migrants
Many of those affected do not have enough time to pack personal items or necessary medication. There were also frequent family separations. In some cases, family members waited separately during collection, which caused additional stress in the emotionally stressful situation of deportation.
This was particularly noticeable in collective deportations, which often took place in the Western Balkan states. Here, repatriates reported that they had neither the opportunity to organize their belongings nor withdraw their money when they were picked up, which made the situation even more drastic.
The observations show that the authorities' approach varies greatly depending on the federal state. A striking example is the excessive use of shackles during deportations from Bavaria, which has also been observed in other federal states, particularly on flights to African destinations.
It was not just the question of clothing and the technical execution of deportations that was criticized; The treatment of sick people also appears to be a cause for concern. The activity report describes that an increasing number of cancer patients were deported last year. This raises questions about medical care and the responsibility of authorities.
Criticism of deportation of sick people
Observers particularly criticize the situation when it comes to medical anamnesis. Doctors responsible for fitness to fly often have little time to carry out an adequate examination, especially in the rush that prevails in charter procedures.
The lack of care is also reflected in the fact that there is often a lack of interpreters, which means that children have to translate for their parents. This is part of a problem that, according to Diakonie and Caritas, has a serious impact on the well-being of children, especially when both parents and children are frightened.
Dealing with pregnant women has apparently developed in a positive direction; observers reported that deportations stopped after officials reviewed maternity leave periods. This at least shows progress in sensitivity to the situation of the women affected.
Church observers looked at around 1,200 deportations last year, with a focus on families and single parents with small children and sick people. Their observations illustrate the challenges and human fates that are often overlooked by the authorities.
Minister responds to criticism
Interior Minister Roman Poseck's reaction to the deportation observers' criticism was attentive. He noted that the lessons learned will be taken seriously and incorporated into future considerations. This shows that the political leadership recognizes the importance of human dignity in a highly sensitive area such as deportation practices.
Poseck also emphasized that the state of Hesse was involved in financing the project, which is a sign of appreciation for the work of the observers. This is intended to ensure that in the event of deportations, a humanitarian and healthy approach to those affected is maintained.
Despite this recognition, Poseck continues to take a tough stance on deportations. He works to ensure that the law is enforced to ensure the integrity of the rule of law. “Deportations are always personally difficult, but necessary,” emphasized the minister.
By August 2024, 1,084 people had already been deported from Hesse, while the number in the previous year was 1,406. These continuous numbers highlight the pressure that government agencies are under not only to comply with legislation, but also to take into account human destinies.