Refugees in Germany feeling ever less welcome | DW News

Key Concepts:

• Refugee integration in Germany
• Shifting attitudes towards migrants
• Labor shortages and the need for migration
• The legacy of Angela Merkel's "Wir schaffen das" ("We can do it") motto
• The rise of the far-right (AfD)
• Humanitarian responsibility to accept refugees
• Importance of professional and sustainable integration structures
• Access to integration lessons, employment opportunities, and psychosocial support

1. Shifting Attitudes Towards Migrants in Germany:

• A study by the German Institute for Economic Research reveals a decline in the feeling of welcome among migrants in Germany. In 2017, 84% of migrants felt welcome, but this figure dropped to 65% in 2023.
• This shift coincides with the 10-year anniversary of Angela Merkel's "Wir schaffen das" (We can do it) motto, which welcomed millions of refugees fleeing conflict.
• While Germany initially showed open arms and hearts, there's now a sense of closed doors and rising tensions.

2. The Context of the 2015 Refugee Influx:

• In 2015, Germany experienced a record number of asylum applications, primarily from individuals fleeing conflict in Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq.
• This influx led to feelings of being overwhelmed, fear, and hostility among some Germans.
• Support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has surged, with one in five Germans voting for them.
• Violent crimes linked to refugees have further exacerbated tensions.

3. Germany's Economic Need for Migration:

• Despite the rising anti-immigrant sentiment, Germany faces an acute labor shortage and relies on migration to sustain its economy.
• Approximately 3.5 million refugees currently reside in Germany, with many having successfully integrated and built new lives.
• Studies indicate that the majority of those who arrived in 2015 have found employment.

4. Challenges and Opportunities in Integration:

• While progress has been made, more needs to be done to integrate refugees and reduce tensions within local communities.
• A retired policeman is working to bridge the gap between a refugee housing center and the nearby town, highlighting the need for grassroots efforts.
• Some believe that politicians are not fully aware of the on-the-ground realities and needs.

5. Angela Merkel's Perspective:

• Former Chancellor Angela Merkel stands by her decision to welcome refugees, despite the polarization it caused and the rise of the AfD.
• She believes it was an important, right, reasonable, and humane decision at the time.

6. Kirsten Becka's Insights (German Paritätische Welfare Association):

• Kirsten Becka emphasizes that Germany achieved a great deal in 2015 through the cooperation of state actors, civil society, and the broader population.
• However, she stresses that volunteering and positive attitudes are insufficient; professional and sustainable structures are essential for successful integration.
• She argues that migration, including refugee resettlement, benefits German society as a whole, not just the employment sector, by fostering an open and liberal society.
• Germany has a humanitarian responsibility to accept refugees, especially given the numerous wars and crises worldwide.
• She highlights the importance of providing access to integration lessons, the freedom to choose where to live based on employment opportunities, and professional psychosocial support for traumatized individuals.
• The asylum policy has changed a lot in the last years.

7. The Impact of Policy Changes and Attitudes:

• Changes in asylum policy have made it more difficult to secure funding and ensure adequate rights and structures for asylum seekers.
• Negative attitudes towards migrants complicate integration efforts.

8. Lessons from the 2022 Ukrainian Refugee Influx:

• The experience of integrating nearly 1 million Ukrainian refugees in 2022 demonstrated the effectiveness of providing immediate access to integration lessons and allowing refugees to choose their place of residence based on employment prospects.

9. Conclusion:

Germany's experience with refugee integration over the past decade reveals a complex interplay of economic needs, humanitarian responsibilities, shifting public attitudes, and the importance of robust integration policies and structures. While initial efforts were driven by a spirit of volunteerism and openness, the need for professional, sustainable, and well-funded integration programs has become increasingly clear. The legacy of "Wir schaffen das" is a reminder of Germany's capacity for compassion and action, but also a call for a more strategic and comprehensive approach to migration management.