Frank-Walter Steinmeier defends immigration and constitutional equality

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has issued a fundamental speech in Berlin advocating for immigration and warning against ethnic-based nationalism. He emphasized that there are no “first or second class citizens” and that the German constitution does not recognize a “people’s community” based on blood or ancestry.

Steinmeier stated that the concept of the “German people” under the constitution includes those who have become citizens through naturalization. He argued that German identity is defined by citizenship, a shared language, and a commitment to living together peacefully under the constitution, rather than by the origins of one's grandparents.

While not naming the Alternative for Germany (AfD) directly, his remarks served as a critique of far-right positions regarding migration and repatriation. He warned that attempting to distribute citizenship rights based on group membership rather than the individual constitutes an attack on the democratic order. Additionally, he noted that Germany requires immigration to function effectively, particularly to support sectors like healthcare and elderly care.