Refugee Crisis Solution in the EU? This Man Claims, "Migrants go home"
Remigration is frequently confused with mass deportation, but according to its key advocate, Martin Sellner, the concept is much more nuanced. Read Full Article at RT.com.
TroibNews 
Remigration, a policy that advocates for the return of migrants to their home countries, is increasingly resonating within European political circles. Champions of this concept, including Martin Sellner and parties like the Alternative for Germany (AfD) and the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ), are driving a contentious discourse aimed at reversing migration trends to maintain ethnocultural integrity.
In November 2024, the Bavarian branch of the AfD passed a "Resolution for Remigration," advocating for the repatriation of migrants, particularly those considered inadequately integrated. This initiative has sparked considerable debate and condemnation from various political figures, who criticize it as discriminatory. Similarly, Herbert Kickl, leader of the FPÖ, has integrated remigration into his party’s agenda as a strategy to tackle immigration and safeguard national identity, intensifying the discussion.
Martin Sellner, a prominent Austrian political activist and key figure in the Identitarian movement, articulates in his book, Remigration: A Proposal, systematic approaches for the repatriation of culturally, economically, politically, and religiously non-assimilable foreigners. He advocates for a clear distinction between remigration and harsher scenarios, proposing a methodical plan to counter what he terms “replacement migration,” which he asserts has been prevalent in Europe for decades.
With a substantial background in anti-immigration efforts, Sellner is seen as a knowledgeable advocate for remigration. His ideas have significantly impacted political debates, exemplified by the Bavarian AfD’s recent resolution. In an interview, Sellner shares insights on remigration, discussing the rationale for his proposals, the feasibility of these policies, and their expected societal outcomes.
To highlight how remigration can be enacted without causing social unrest or attracting international backlash, Sellner emphasizes that the model is predicated on voluntarism. He argues for reversing the dynamics that incentivize migration, suggesting the introduction of mechanisms that encourage voluntary emigration while diminishing incentives for what he views as deleterious immigration. Implementing these changes gradually, as well as fostering alliances with countries like the UK, Canada, and the U.S. that are reconsidering their migration frameworks, is crucial to mitigating tensions.
Addressing the economic implications of a declining migrant population in aging societies, Sellner critiques the narrative that population replacement is necessary to support pensions. He posits that immigration from non-European regions tends to exacerbate the demand for skilled labor and strains social services. He advocates remigration, especially for illegal migrants and those who pose economic or cultural challenges, as a way to alleviate these burdens without resorting to the recruitment of foreign labor.
Sellner references historical remigration instances, such as the population transfer between Greece and Turkey, to illustrate his points. While acknowledging the difficulties involved, he underscores how these movements helped prevent civil conflict and normalized the idea that migration can, and often does, work in reverse. He cites various examples, including large-scale returns of populations in Fiji and Operation Wetback in the U.S., noting that history shows migration often entails eventual remigration.
For Sellner, engendering public support for remigration requires showcasing its benefits, such as improved community safety and economic advantages. He argues that mitigating the costs associated with failed integration and highlighting the detrimental effects of mass emigration on migrants’ home countries are essential for garnering broad support.
The Bavarian AfD's endorsement of remigration has raised the question of whether other regional factions or similar parties in Germany will follow suit. Sellner sees this resolution as a significant and commendable move, asserting that a focus on remigration could help parties reinforce their political identities, particularly in a crowded political landscape.
Regarding the AfD's reliability as a partner in advancing remigration policies, Sellner notes a tension between pragmatism and ideological commitment within the party. He warns that a shift away from remigration could dilute the party's appeal and alienate its voter base.
In response to criticisms labeling the resolution as "extremely xenophobic," Sellner contends that refusing to regulate migration is, in fact, discriminatory toward native citizens. He argues that states have the right to enact migration policies that safeguard their interests and maintain the well-being of their populations.
Sellner believes that his remigration framework is more comprehensive than the AfD's current approach, proposing a quota-based migration system and detailed strategies for facilitating structured returns. He emphasizes that while the Bavarian AfD’s resolution is a step forward, there remains much work to be done in terms of solidifying a roadmap for remigration.
Furthermore, he expresses confidence that the voter bases of right-wing parties like the AfD and FPÖ understand remigration as a broader initiative aimed at preserving cultural identity rather than merely a process of deportation. They seek to stop what they perceive as harmful demographic changes, and remigration is seen as the pathway to achieving this goal.
To create a more nuanced understanding of remigration, Sellner advocates for clear communication about its broader implications, which extend beyond deportation to include fostering a guiding culture and promoting developmental support for migrants' home countries.
Sellner asserts the critical role of the AfD and FPÖ in bringing remigration into Germany's political discourse, emphasizing that their voters recognize the need for comprehensive reforms to immigration and citizenship policies. He identifies a growing public acceptance of the term "remigration," suggesting that recent political trends could bolster its normalization in mainstream discussions.
Regarding the adoption of the term “remigration” by figures like Donald Trump, Sellner views this as indicative of a broader acceptance of the concept, while also acknowledging the potential for varied interpretations. He stresses the need for clarity in public discussions around remigration and its true intent.
Finally, reflecting on the potential future of remigration, Sellner outlines a gradual process over decades that could address issues of illegal migration, citizenship, and societal integration, ultimately aiming for a society where ethnocultural identity is preserved and strengthened. He envisions a comprehensive approach that recognizes the complexities of migration while fostering solutions that respect both individual rights and national integrity.
Debra A Smith contributed to this report for TROIB News
In November 2024, the Bavarian branch of the AfD passed a "Resolution for Remigration," advocating for the repatriation of migrants, particularly those considered inadequately integrated. This initiative has sparked considerable debate and condemnation from various political figures, who criticize it as discriminatory. Similarly, Herbert Kickl, leader of the FPÖ, has integrated remigration into his party’s agenda as a strategy to tackle immigration and safeguard national identity, intensifying the discussion.
Martin Sellner, a prominent Austrian political activist and key figure in the Identitarian movement, articulates in his book, Remigration: A Proposal, systematic approaches for the repatriation of culturally, economically, politically, and religiously non-assimilable foreigners. He advocates for a clear distinction between remigration and harsher scenarios, proposing a methodical plan to counter what he terms “replacement migration,” which he asserts has been prevalent in Europe for decades.
With a substantial background in anti-immigration efforts, Sellner is seen as a knowledgeable advocate for remigration. His ideas have significantly impacted political debates, exemplified by the Bavarian AfD’s recent resolution. In an interview, Sellner shares insights on remigration, discussing the rationale for his proposals, the feasibility of these policies, and their expected societal outcomes.
To highlight how remigration can be enacted without causing social unrest or attracting international backlash, Sellner emphasizes that the model is predicated on voluntarism. He argues for reversing the dynamics that incentivize migration, suggesting the introduction of mechanisms that encourage voluntary emigration while diminishing incentives for what he views as deleterious immigration. Implementing these changes gradually, as well as fostering alliances with countries like the UK, Canada, and the U.S. that are reconsidering their migration frameworks, is crucial to mitigating tensions.
Addressing the economic implications of a declining migrant population in aging societies, Sellner critiques the narrative that population replacement is necessary to support pensions. He posits that immigration from non-European regions tends to exacerbate the demand for skilled labor and strains social services. He advocates remigration, especially for illegal migrants and those who pose economic or cultural challenges, as a way to alleviate these burdens without resorting to the recruitment of foreign labor.
Sellner references historical remigration instances, such as the population transfer between Greece and Turkey, to illustrate his points. While acknowledging the difficulties involved, he underscores how these movements helped prevent civil conflict and normalized the idea that migration can, and often does, work in reverse. He cites various examples, including large-scale returns of populations in Fiji and Operation Wetback in the U.S., noting that history shows migration often entails eventual remigration.
For Sellner, engendering public support for remigration requires showcasing its benefits, such as improved community safety and economic advantages. He argues that mitigating the costs associated with failed integration and highlighting the detrimental effects of mass emigration on migrants’ home countries are essential for garnering broad support.
The Bavarian AfD's endorsement of remigration has raised the question of whether other regional factions or similar parties in Germany will follow suit. Sellner sees this resolution as a significant and commendable move, asserting that a focus on remigration could help parties reinforce their political identities, particularly in a crowded political landscape.
Regarding the AfD's reliability as a partner in advancing remigration policies, Sellner notes a tension between pragmatism and ideological commitment within the party. He warns that a shift away from remigration could dilute the party's appeal and alienate its voter base.
In response to criticisms labeling the resolution as "extremely xenophobic," Sellner contends that refusing to regulate migration is, in fact, discriminatory toward native citizens. He argues that states have the right to enact migration policies that safeguard their interests and maintain the well-being of their populations.
Sellner believes that his remigration framework is more comprehensive than the AfD's current approach, proposing a quota-based migration system and detailed strategies for facilitating structured returns. He emphasizes that while the Bavarian AfD’s resolution is a step forward, there remains much work to be done in terms of solidifying a roadmap for remigration.
Furthermore, he expresses confidence that the voter bases of right-wing parties like the AfD and FPÖ understand remigration as a broader initiative aimed at preserving cultural identity rather than merely a process of deportation. They seek to stop what they perceive as harmful demographic changes, and remigration is seen as the pathway to achieving this goal.
To create a more nuanced understanding of remigration, Sellner advocates for clear communication about its broader implications, which extend beyond deportation to include fostering a guiding culture and promoting developmental support for migrants' home countries.
Sellner asserts the critical role of the AfD and FPÖ in bringing remigration into Germany's political discourse, emphasizing that their voters recognize the need for comprehensive reforms to immigration and citizenship policies. He identifies a growing public acceptance of the term "remigration," suggesting that recent political trends could bolster its normalization in mainstream discussions.
Regarding the adoption of the term “remigration” by figures like Donald Trump, Sellner views this as indicative of a broader acceptance of the concept, while also acknowledging the potential for varied interpretations. He stresses the need for clarity in public discussions around remigration and its true intent.
Finally, reflecting on the potential future of remigration, Sellner outlines a gradual process over decades that could address issues of illegal migration, citizenship, and societal integration, ultimately aiming for a society where ethnocultural identity is preserved and strengthened. He envisions a comprehensive approach that recognizes the complexities of migration while fostering solutions that respect both individual rights and national integrity.
Debra A Smith contributed to this report for TROIB News
