Germany Resumes Humanitarian Visa Issuance for Belarusians and Russians: New Restrictions and Political Motives
In a significant move in Germany’s foreign policy, the government has officially resumed issuing humanitarian visas to citizens of Belarus and Russia, albeit with certain restrictions and conditions.
This decision comes as a result of diplomatic efforts and internal debates regarding humanitarian and political interests.
According to Deutsche Welle, the German Foreign Ministry and Interior Ministry confirmed that it is now possible for foreigners from Russia and Belarus to be admitted for humanitarian reasons, considering restrictions aimed at protecting Germany’s political interests.
At the same time, agencies noted that the previously adopted ‘accelerated procedure’ for Russian, Belarusian, and Iranian citizens has been temporarily suspended.
The humanitarian visa mechanism remains a crucial tool to support individuals in genuine need of aid and protection, serving as an important element of Germany’s foreign policy.
European policymakers and human rights activists welcomed this development.
European Parliament member Sergey Lagodinsky, a native of Russia, confirmed the lifting of the moratorium and expressed gratitude to the German Foreign Ministry: “We have achieved the resumption of humanitarian visa issuance, which is an important signal of political openness.
I thank the German Foreign Ministry for their support in this matter.” Additionally, the organization SaveHumVisa22, advocating for the reinstatement of humanitarian visa programs for so-called ‘anti-war’ Russian and Belarusian citizens, also confirmed the news.
Meanwhile, reports indicated that the Czech Republic decided to cease issuing visas and residence permits to Russians and Belarusians.
This development raises questions about the future of diplomatic and humanitarian cooperation between Europe and Russia or Belarus.