Germany: Chancellor Friedrich Merz Announces Decline of the Country Without Immigrants

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized the importance of immigrants to the German economy during a speech in the Bundestag in September 2026. He warned that a massive departure of immigrant workers would have serious consequences for key sectors such as crafts, hospitals, and restaurants. Merz clarified that his government distinguishes between immigrants who contribute to the economy and those without permanent residency rights. According to statistics, over 822,000 African nationals currently live in Germany.