The demand that migrants, refugees and asylum seekers adopt German values such as gender equality, LGBT rights, freedom of speech and freedom of the press has been a topic of public debate in Germany for almost a decade, since the mass influx of refugees in 2015.
But on October 7, when thousands of Muslims in Germany went out into the streets to celebrate the Hamas slaughter and protest against Israeli actions in Gaza, many politicians, especially in the Interior Ministry, clarified that some of the new requirements for permanent residents and to acquire German citizenship will now also be linked to the approach by those seeking asylum toward Jews and Judaism.
A leaked document from the Interior Ministry published Tuesday in Der Spiegel sheds further light on the issue and the new changes included in the questionnaire for those applying for German citizenship. At least 50% of this set of 33 questions must be answered correctly if one wants to proceed to the next stage of the German passport application process.
Der Spiegel reveals that, among other questions, refugees will be asked: When was the State of Israel founded? What is the expected punishment for Holocaust denial in Germany? And what is the name of the Jewish place of worship? "If you do not share our values, you cannot receive a German passport," said Interior Minister Nancy Faeser from the Social Democratic party, who since the October 7 terror attack has taken a tough stance to expel Islamist organizations and eradicate antisemitism from her country. "We have zero tolerance for antisemitism and racism. This is a red line that we are drawing. Any manifestation of racism or contempt for humanity will prevent refugees from obtaining citizenship."
The new questions on the citizenship test were compiled in recent months, primarily following serious attacks against Jews throughout Germany and slogans calling for Israel's destruction shouted by tens of thousands of protesters. One of the questions will also require an answer about the reason Germany is committed to protecting Israel. However, it should be noted that the Interior Ministry has decided not to require refugees to declare a clear recognition of Israel's right to exist. Those undergoing naturalization in the state of Saxony-Anhalt, however, will indeed be required to declare their recognition of the existence of the State of Israel.
"The Holocaust was a crime against humanity and the Jewish people," said Faeser. "Because of this, we are responsible for the lives of Jews and for Israel's right to exist. This special responsibility is part of our identity today. Anyone who wants to be German must understand, acknowledge and recognize Germany's responsibility toward Jews and Israel."