Özdemir: Immigration must be controlled much more strongly - Baden-Württemberg's Greens shift stance on immigration ahead of pivotal election
Baden-Württemberg will vote for a new state parliament on 8 March, marking the end of Winfried Kretschmann's long tenure as minister-president. The Greens, now led by Cem Özdemir, face a tight race against the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), which currently holds a narrow lead in the polls. Özdemir has positioned himself as a candidate focused on balancing openness with stricter immigration controls—a shift from the party's earlier stance.
The Greens in Baden-Württemberg have noticeably hardened their migration policy in recent years. Once known for advocating open borders and family reunification during the 2016 and 2021 campaigns, the party now supports stricter asylum rules, faster deportations, and even upper limits on arrivals. This shift comes as part of their coalition with the CDU since 2024, a partnership aimed at halting voter losses ahead of the 2026 election.
Özdemir, the Greens' lead candidate, argues that immigration must be both regulated and managed effectively. He acknowledges Germany's dependence on foreign workers, particularly in sectors like eldercare, but insists on stronger controls. At the same time, he questions whether his party has always considered the broader impact of its migration policies, suggesting past approaches may have alienated voters.
The Greens' change in direction reflects a broader strategy to appeal to a wider electorate. Özdemir has openly criticised the party for making life unnecessarily difficult for itself, urging a focus on issues that directly affect people's daily lives. His campaign centres on winning back support by addressing practical concerns rather than ideological debates.
With the CDU slightly ahead in the polls, the election outcome remains uncertain. Özdemir's push for a more pragmatic migration policy signals a clear break from the Greens' previous positions. The results on 8 March will determine whether this shift is enough to secure the party's future in Baden-Württemberg's government.
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