CDU’s divisive rhetoric leaves migrant professionals in Germany feeling betrayed

When leaders use words like ‘original German people,’ who gets left out? Public servants with migrant roots share their pain—and demand accountability.

, and Administrator

2025 November 29 . 4:02 AM

1 min read

In front of the picture, we see a white car on which "Police" is written. Behind that, there are... — In front of the picture, we see a white car on which "Police" is written. Behind that, there are many cars moving on the road. On either side of the road, we see grass and trees. This picture is clicked outside the city.

A Police Officer at Work, a Problem with the Cityscape on the Way Home - CDU’s divisive rhetoric leaves migrant professionals in Germany feeling betrayed

Recent statements by CDU politicians on immigration and identity have sparked controversy across Germany. Several high-profile figures, including Chancellor Friedrich Merz, have used language that many see as exclusionary. Their remarks have drawn sharp criticism from professionals with migrant backgrounds in the police, military, and judiciary—some of whom have shared personal experiences of discrimination.

In 2022, CDU leaders such as Friedrich Merz and Jens Spahn rejected the idea of Germany as a 'land of immigration'. Instead, they used terms like 'eigentlich Deutscher Volk' (original German people), without specifying numbers or definitions. Christoph de Vries, another CDU politician, went further by linking crime to 'phenotype' and 'darker skin types'.

The debate has left many in public service feeling alienated and undervalued. Police officers, military personnel, and judges with migrant backgrounds report a mix of hurt and bewilderment. While the CDU has not issued a collective response, the personal stories highlight ongoing tensions over identity, belonging, and the language used by those in power.