Friedrich Merz's Proposal to Revoke Citizenship for Criminal Dual Nationals Faces Legal and Political Pushback

Germany's Interior Ministry deems the CDU leader's plan unconstitutional, while critics warn it risks creating 'second-class citizens.'

CDU leader Friedrich Merz has proposed revoking German citizenship for dual nationals who commit serious crimes, sparking significant debate over its legality and implications.
Germany's Interior Ministry has stated the proposal would violate constitutional protections, emphasizing that citizenship cannot be revoked solely for criminal offenses unless it aligns with strict legal criteria.
The proposal has drawn criticism from political leaders, including SPD and Green Party officials, who argue it sends a harmful message about belonging and equality for immigrants in Germany.
Advocacy groups, such as the Turkish Community in Germany, have condemned the plan, warning it would reduce dual nationals to 'citizens on probation' and disproportionately target people with migration backgrounds.
Merz's comments follow recent debates on citizenship rules, with Germany recording a record number of naturalizations in 2023, largely driven by immigrants from Syria, Turkey, and other countries.