Criticism of the Chancellor: Merz polarizes with statements about the cityscape!

Criticism of the Chancellor: Merz polarizes with statements about the cityscape!

The discussion about the cityscape in Germany is currently being examined from various sides, particularly in the context of migration. In the Oberbergischer Kreis, the network against the right is critical of the latest statements by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, which are related to the issue of migration. The network sees it as problematic when Merz describes people with a migration history as a disruptive factor. This formulation increases polarization and strengthens racist narratives, as the network emphasizes in a statement. The discussion was triggered by Merz's more specific statement that people "without permanent residence status, who don't work and don't follow the rules" pose a challenge to the cityscape.

At a time when the number of new asylum applications is being reduced - Merz reported a reduction of 60 percent from August 2024 to August 2025 - tensions and fears are growing among the population. Critics, such as Green Party leader Katharina Dröge, called for more decency from Merz and described his comments as hurtful and discriminatory. Merz's statements open up room for generalizations that should be avoided because they undermine social cohesion. The controversial term “cityscape” is perceived as a euphemistic code and is at the center of the nationwide debate about migration and integration. Sociologist Nina Perkowski describes this term as a catalyst for social fears.

Cityscape and social cohesion

Social reactions to such statements are divided and reflect the overall constitution of the country. While some see Merz's words and similar statements by politicians as a necessary recognition of urban challenges, others criticize the associated stigma for migrant communities. This language debate is being reinforced by the increasingly present AfD, which is gaining support in surveys. The controversy surrounding the term “cityscape” evokes feelings of alienation and insecurity, particularly in urban centers such as Cologne.

Particularly noteworthy is the role that the network plays against the right. It is funded by the non-profit GmbH PariSozial and supported by numerous actors from culture, communities and churches in the district. Instead of playing people off against each other, political discourse should aim to strengthen cohesion in a diverse society. Germany is not only a country with a long history of migration, but also a place where different cultures work together to shape the cityscape.

Political responsibility and challenges

Political actors have a responsibility not only to ensure security, but also to seek dialogue in difficult social discussions. The current exchange about migration, cityscape and social cohesion not only calms people's minds, but also reflects the change in public perception. Fears of crime, not least through media reporting on refugee immigration, are driven by political language.

As the German Institute for Economic Affairs (DIW) shows, fears of crime do not always correlate with actual developments. Instead, the current discussion makes it clear that the challenges are multifactorial – linked to poverty and social inequality. Political language not only has an influence on the “cityscape”, but can also have a lasting influence on the social mood. It is therefore crucial that voices like those of the network against the right are heard in order to promote an inclusive and respectful culture of discourse.