The number of individuals seeking sanctuary in churches in Germany has decreased significantly in 2025. Preliminary figures from the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) indicate a decline attributed to increased rejections at the German border. A church representative has voiced concerns that these government measures may be unlawful.
Fewer Cases of Church Asylum
Between January and the end of November, 2139 people were granted asylum in churches. This is a marked decrease from the 2966 individuals who received church asylum in all of 2024, according to BAMF data.
A BAMF spokesperson stated that the reduction in church asylum cases mirrors the overall decrease in asylum applications received in Germany in 2025. The number of church asylum cases had reportedly increased for four consecutive years prior to this decline.
Dieter Müller, Deputy Chairman of the Ökumenische Bundesarbeitsgemeinschaft Asyl in der Kirche, explained that border rejections are a key factor in the decline. He stated, “Because people who have already been registered as applicants in another EU member state are primarily being denied entry.”
Müller further noted that BAMF has reportedly dealt with fewer “Dublin cases” due to these border measures, which he described as “from our point of view, contrary to European law.” This shift has subsequently impacted the number of requests for church asylum.
What is Church Asylum?
Church asylum involves local parishes or religious orders temporarily taking in asylum seekers to prevent their deportation to their home country or transfer to another country under the Dublin Procedure. It is typically granted when deportation or return poses a threat to life and limb, and when there are continued prospects for the individual to remain in the country. However, the practice has become increasingly controversial, with a guide from Catholic bishops describing it as a “last resort.”
Despite its recent prominence, the concept of church asylum is not new. It largely lost significance with the development of legal systems and was abolished in most countries during the 18th and 19th centuries. The Catholic Church officially discontinued church asylum with the new Catholic Church Law of 1983.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Dublin Procedure?
The Dublin Procedure is a system used within the European Union to determine which member state is responsible for examining an asylum application. It generally requires asylum seekers to apply in the first EU country they enter.
What is a “Dublin case” in this context?
A “Dublin case” refers to an asylum seeker who has already been registered as an applicant in another EU member state. Germany has been denying entry to individuals falling into this category, contributing to the decline in church asylum requests.
Is church asylum legally recognized in Germany?
While the practice exists, church asylum is not formally recognized under German law. It is considered a form of humanitarian intervention, but its legal status remains contested.
As border policies and EU regulations continue to evolve, will the role of churches in providing sanctuary for asylum seekers shift further, or could we see a resurgence in demand for church asylum if circumstances change?
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