EU Reports Fewer Asylum Applications, Drawing Criticism Over New Cemetery Law in Rhineland-Palatinate
In Rhineland-Palatinate, a contentious new burial law is set to be voted on in the state parliament in Mainz on Thursday, causing a stir among various groups. The proposed law, which will make the law more liberal, has raised concerns about the clarity of regulations and the impact on mourning culture.
The new law includes provisions for burials in rivers and only in a shroud, a departure from traditional burial practices. This innovative approach has been met with criticism from the parliamentary opposition, churches, the funeral industry, and other concerned parties.
The criticism centres around the risk to mourning culture and the lack of clear regulations for new burial forms. Critics argue that these changes could lead to confusion and discomfort for those who are grieving, and that more stringent regulations are necessary to ensure respect and dignity in the burial process.
Meanwhile, German administrative courts have reported a significant increase in asylum appeals. This rise comes as the number of asylum applications in Germany and the EU has decreased by 25% in the first half of the year compared to the previous year, according to the EU asylum authority. Despite this decrease, the proceedings for appeals against rejected asylum applications in Germany are taking longer again, causing concern among migrants and human rights advocates.
As the vote on the new burial law in Rhineland-Palatinate approaches, the debate continues. The outcome of this vote could set a precedent for other states in Germany and potentially across Europe, making it a crucial moment in the evolution of burial practices and asylum policies.
