Over a tenth of those deported are underage individuals
The number of child deportations from Germany has been on the rise, with more school-age children being deported in the first half of 2025 than in an entire year a few years ago [1]. This trend is primarily linked to a rise in total deportations, while the proportion of children and young people among deportees has remained stable at around 11% since 2022 [1].
Under the current traffic light coalition (SPD, Greens, FDP), Germany has maintained and intensified stricter border controls and deportation efforts. Since May 2022, border checks have been extended with heightened efforts to deport those without legal residency, which includes minors in some cases [4].
The coalition government's focus on border controls and the prioritization of the deportation of irregular migrants, including in complex cases such as Afghanistan and Syria, raises human rights concerns [4]. In 2024, a total of 20,084 people were deported from Germany, including 2,316 children and adolescents, representing 11.5% of the total [2].
It's important to note that among asylum seekers, children and young males (especially aged 16-17) form a significant demographic [5]. In 2024 and 2025, asylum applications in Germany have decreased overall [2]. However, unaccompanied minors from refugee groups, such as those from Ukraine, represent a smaller part of deportations [3].
The continuation and intensification of deportations signal a stricter migration regime that might affect integration efforts and Germany’s international human rights reputation. The coalition’s policies may lead to legal and social challenges, as deporting minors often involves ensuring adequate protection and respect for child welfare standards.
Dietmar Bartsch, a MP from The Left, criticized the deportation of minors, questioning the logic of deporting children who are learning, growing up, and integrated in Germany. He emphasized that children belong in school, not on deportation flights [1].
Despite the concerns raised by Bartsch, no new information has been provided regarding the age distribution of the deported children and adolescents, or the employment status of the deportees [1]. The government does not have information on how many of the deportees were in employment subject to social insurance contributions [1].
In summary, the child deportation increase under the traffic light coalition arises from higher overall deportations combined with stable relative shares of minors. The coalition’s focus on border controls and deportation enforcement is a driving political factor with significant social and legal implications [1][4].
[1] German Press Agency (dpa) report [2] Data provided in the government's response to a parliamentary inquiry by The Left [3] Unpublished data from the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) [4] Interview with Dietmar Bartsch, MP from The Left, on child deportations in Germany
Science can play a crucial role in addressing the ethical implications of child deportations, particularly in understanding the impact on health-and-wellness of minors. The continuation and intensification of deportations, as observed under the traffic light coalition, requires careful consideration and research on the long-term effects on child development and integration.
