Jens Spahn, a senior member of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and deputy leader of the party's parliamentary group, has asserted that Germany may reject asylum seekers at its borders, even without the consent of neighboring EU countries.

Spahn emphasized that while Germany intends to inform its European partners and seek coordination, it should not depend on their approval, stating, "We do not make ourselves dependent on the approval of other countries." This statement was made during a podcast appearance, highlighting a strategic shift in German migration policy.

In coalition talks, the leadership of both the CDU and the Social Democratic Party (SPD) has reached a consensus on a unified approach to migration.

According to their agreement, asylum seekers may be turned away at Germany's borders, albeit "in coordination with our European neighbors." Spahn pointed to the specific wording of the agreement, emphasizing that it mentions coordination rather than approval, and claimed that legal frameworks exist to enforce such measures.

This potential policy change marks the first instance since 2015 that rejections may also apply to those filing for asylum.

Spahn noted that the SPD has been cooperative in discussions surrounding the limitation of migration, highlighting a shared interest in the issue.

Supporters for the proposed policies emerged from Austria, where Prime Minister Christian Stocker expressed general approval of Germany's commitment to combating illegal immigration.

Stocker asserted the importance of robust border protection, citing that stronger external borders correlate with fewer issues at internal European borders.

However, he clarified that Austria opposes the specific plans for asylum rejections at the German border, indicating that it would not accept individuals turned away by Germany.

Austria's Interior Ministry further articulated that if Germany's measures impact the migratory pressures on Austria, the country would implement necessary countermeasures.

Stocker reiterated a firm position, stating, "If the measures taken by Germany increase migration pressure on Austria, we will take appropriate action to address it."

Austria's Chancellor has indicated that should asylum numbers increase again, Austria might invoke a procedural emergency, opting to halt new asylum applications entirely.

Currently, the Austrian ministry has instructed local police authorities to report any actions by German officials that contravene EU law regarding entry refusals.

Both Germany and Austria are navigating complex discussions regarding migration, with the newly formed Austrian coalition government, consisting of the conservative ÖVP, the social democratic SPÖ, and the liberal Neos, also planning restrictive measures in asylum and migration.

These may include the temporary suspension of family reunification for those granted protection status, a move mirrored in the German coalition's plans focusing on those with limited protection rights.