THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY'S REFUGEE POLICY AND ITS IMPACT TO THE COUNTRY'S LEADERSHIP IN EUROPEAN UNION ON HANDLING REFUGEE CRISIS IN EUROPE (2014-2016)

Abstract

The arrival of more than one million refugees to European countries is creating a new problem to the EU. Germany, Europe's largest economy, is undoubtedly becoming the most wanted country for refugees. In response to the increasing numbers of refugee coming to the country, German Chancellor Angela Merkel decided to issue a new policy on refugees. Germany opens its border to refugees. Yet, the policy caused critics coming from EU member countries. In the EU, finding a solution to handle the crisis is not an easy job. For countries who against accepting refugees, German policy is considered aggravating the crisis. As Germany has a significant leadership in the EU, the refugee crisis challenges German leadership in the EU. Using qualitative methodology through descriptive analytical research, this research focuses on the Germany's leadership in EU on handling the refugee crisis in 2014-2016, particularly after the German refugee policy implemented. Key findings of this research are the analysis of Germany refugee policy as well as its positive impact to Germany's leadership on handling refugee crisis in Europe.