Merz warns fear of foreigners is ideologically infectious

Merz spoke in Berlin on 20 Oct 2026. He celebrated the 65th anniversary of the German‑Turkish guest worker agreement. He praised Turkish migrants for building Germany’s economy and culture. He noted the agreement began on 30 Oct 1961.

Merz warned that fear of foreigners is ideologically infectious. He said it is a poison for free societies. He said this fear is being ideologically exploited. He referenced attacks in Mölln, Solingen and Hanau.

Merz called the term "remigration" an unwort. He said Germany needs skilled workers from abroad. He said German and Turkish people became more open and tolerant in the 1960s and 1970s. He said many still feel treated as outsiders.

The government noted 867,000 Turkish migrants arrived in the first 12 years after the agreement. The agreement originally allowed two‑year guest workers. It was later extended to permanent residence. The integration office said racism is rising.