THE INFLUENCE OF THE "OPEN DOOR POLICY" ON SOCIAL AND POLITICAL SHIFTS IN GERMANY

The Open Door Policy implemented by Germany in 2015 aimed to provide
protection to refugees fleeing conflict-affected countries. This policy was driven by
Germany's commitment to humanitarian values and international solidarity. However, as
the policy was enacted, it triggered significant shifts in both the social and political
landscapes of Germany, including heightened tensions between supporters and opponents
of immigration.
This research seeks to identify how the Open Door Policy has influenced the
social and political dynamics in Germany. The study employs a descriptive qualitative
methodology, relying on secondary data from journal articles, news reports, surveys,
official reports, and other relevant sources. The collected data is analyzed to provide a
deeper understanding of the policy's impact.
The findings indicate that, socially, the policy has led to an increase in
xenophobic violence and anti-immigrant sentiment among the population. Politically, the
policy contributed to the rise of populist support for the Alternative für Deutschland
(AfD) party and prompted changes in immigration and integration policies. In
conclusion, while the Open Door Policy reflects humanitarian values, its outcomes reveal
significant challenges in maintaining social and political stability in Germany.
Keywords: Open Door Policy, Germany, Immigration, Social & political shift