Hundreds of mostly Iranian and Afghan asylum seekers have changed faiths at the evangelical Trinity Church in a leafy Berlin neighbourhood alone.
Many claim true belief prompted the move, but the decision undoubtedly boosts their chances of being granted asylum by allowing them to claim they would face persecution if sent home.
Germany expected about 2,500 refugees to arrive in the country by early afternoon today after some 20,000 came in over the weekend.
Chancellor Angela Merkel today described the influx as 'breathtaking' and said it would change the make-up of country forever.
She said: 'What we are experiencing now is something that will occupy and change our country in coming years.'
She said Germany will ensure that those who need protection receive it, but that those who stand no chance of getting asylum will have to return to their homes swiftly.
No comments:
Post a Comment