Managing the specified task is within our reach. - "Merkel's famous catchphrase: 'We will make it'"
In a recent interview for an ARD documentary, Angela Merkel, the former Chancellor of Germany, discussed her decision to accept refugees and the subsequent impact on the country.
Merkel made her famous statement "We can do it" regarding the influx of hundreds of thousands of refugees on August 31, 2015. However, she admitted that her decision contributed to the rise of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Despite this, Merkel does not believe that Germany was overwhelmed by the influx of refugees.
Merkel acknowledged that her decision led to disputes within the Union, but she did not express regret. Instead, she stated that the alternative would have been to prevent refugees from coming to Germany by force, which she would never have agreed to.
The interview also touched upon the current integration situation in Germany. Carsten Linnemann, the CDU General Secretary, criticized the status quo, stating that less than half of the 6.5 million people who have come to Germany since 2015 are currently employed. Linnemann called for a policy in 2025 that focuses on stopping illegal migration into the social system and promoting regulated immigration into the labor market.
Merkel, in hindsight, sometimes wonders if more could have been done for the people in Syria in 2012/13 when the civil war was already underway. However, she emphasized the importance of providing a safe haven for those in need.
The interview took place on an unspecified date. Merkel's statements were clear and straightforward, reflecting her approach to leadership throughout her tenure as Chancellor.
Meanwhile, Gregor Peter Schmitz, the editor-in-chief of Stern, sends a free newsletter every Wednesday with important content from the Stern editorial team, putting it into context with what Germany is talking about. This service offers insights into the ongoing discussion about migration and integration in Germany.
Carsten Linnemann expressed his critical assessment of Merkel's "Wir schaffen das" statement exactly ten years later, on August 31, 2025, in an interview with the Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung. Linnemann believed that the statement was misunderstood, as Merkel intended to express faith in the people of Germany to handle a great task.
In conclusion, the interview provides a reflective look at Germany's response to the refugee crisis and the ongoing challenges of integration. Merkel's statements underscore her commitment to providing a safe haven for those in need, while acknowledging the need for improvement in integration policies. The ongoing debate about migration and integration in Germany continues to be a significant topic of discussion.
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