Bakondi noted that every EU member state has introduced some form of defensive measure as public concern over migration has increasingly translated into political pressure. He cited Germany as a key example, pointing out that Berlin has reintroduced border controls, expanded its border police force, reduced social benefits, tightened the rules on family reunification, attempted to accelerate deportations, and revised its list of safe countries of origin.
Other countries have also acted, he said. Italy, for instance, has established a migrant facility in Albania, while several states have tightened border surveillance or reinstated internal Schengen checks. According to Bakondi, these steps reflect a growing realization that the presence and lifestyle of large migrant groups have undermined citizens’ sense of everyday security across Europe.
He argued that this shift has fueled the rise of so-called patriotic parties at local, regional, and national elections. As these parties gain ground, they are forcing faster and more decisive action on migration, prompting governing parties to respond with stricter policies.
At the same time, Bakondi criticized the European Union’s central institutions, saying Brussels has failed to recognize the depth of public concern. Instead, the EU continues to promote the migration pact, which he described as an attempt to “distribute” the problem by relocating migrants to countries where they are currently not present.
Commenting specifically on Germany, Bakondi said illegal migrants are increasingly viewed not as a humanitarian issue but as a public security challenge. Many lack legal income or residence permits, have weak social ties, and show little willingness to integrate or comply with local laws, he argued. As their numbers grow, he warned, the associated security risks increase.
Bakondi concluded that effective action will require not only law enforcement tools but also clear political decisions and legislative changes at the national level.