Timelines

Migration is a natural part of living systems, and human history is no exception. Yet it remains one of the most debated public issues of our time.

Both people and borders move. Who is allowed to move, and who is granted rights, lies at the heart of how nations define belonging. In Germany and the United States alike, these debates have been deeply intertwined with evolving ideas of race and ethnicity.

These timelines trace how citizenship and belonging have been constructed, challenged, and redefined through laws, social movements, global events, and cultural works — and how those histories continue to shape the present.

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1993
Restriction of the right to asylum

On 26 May 1993, despite massive civil society protests, the so-called "asylum compromise" was passed. This effectively abolished the right to asylum enshrined in the German constitution.

Due to the newly introduced third-country regulation, only people who enter Germany directly and not via countries considered safe can apply for asylum. This regulation was adopted into the EU as the Dublin regulation, which led to "Fortress Europe" and thousands dying at its sea borders. The concept of "safe countries of origin" also has serious consequences to this day. If the federal government classifies a country as safe, it is almost impossible to receive asylum. This ignores the fact that in many of these countries Romn*nja or queer people are still exposed to persecution. In addition, the airport procedure was introduced, which makes it possible to decide on asylum applications directly at airports or seaports. Today, less than one percent of asylum seekers receive protection under the provisions of the constitution. Instead, the Geneva Refugee Convention and EU law are decisive for granting protection.
©Picture-Alliance
Demonstration Berlin-Kreuzberg, 1999
Germany
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