Germany’s immigration policies have evolved from a guest worker model to structured integration programs. Language and cultural training help new arrivals, as seen in support for Ukrainian refugees. With the far-right AfD rising ahead of the election, immigration remains contentious. Balancing security and inclusivity is crucial for Germany’s future as a cohesive society.
Amy Thompson is the Head of Policy Programmes and Communications at the University of Bath Institute for Policy Research (IPR). Amy also leads the Bath Policy Engagement Academy and University of Bath's policy engagement work. She lives near Munich, Germany.
Living as a British expatriate in Germany offers the opportunity to observe the nation's approaches to immigration, asylum policies, and integration efforts and how they differ from the UK. It also offers the perspective of how the rules for me and my family, as expats, differ from those who come to Germany seeking work, a better life, or asylum.
Germany has a long history of migration, with high levels of emigration until the late 19th century. In the 1950s and 1960s, during the post-Second World War reconstruction known as the "Wirtschaftswunder," the country faced a labour shortage and entered into agreements to recruit workers from nations such as Italy, Greece, Spain, Turkey, and others. These "guest workers" were primarily employed in unskilled labour positions within industrial production, often under challenging conditions. (The house I currently rent, near Munich, was built by Italian guest workers in the 1960s.)
The recruitment of guest workers was halted in 1973 due to the oil crisis and rising unemployment in Germany. German jobs were to be filled by German workers. However, with the fall of the Iron Curtain and the political transformations in Eastern Europe around 1989/90, Germany experienced a rise in immigration.
Historically, Germany approached immigration with the expectation that guest workers would eventually return to their home countries. This perspective meant that integration strategies were not considered, as guest workers were not seen to be a part of German society. Over time, however, Germany recognised the need for structured policies to support new arrivals. Initiatives such as compulsory language courses and orientation programmes have now been introduced and implemented to facilitate immigrants' adaptation and integration into German communities and society.
I think these integration policies are successful in helping people new to Germany to learn the language and navigate the cultures and customs that are nuanced to this country. The emphasis on language acquisition and cultural orientation has empowered new arrivals to navigate daily life more effectively and participate actively in their communities, to attend school, training, or work.
A friend of mine fled her home in Ukraine after the Russian invasion, carrying the only things she could bring with her in a single bag. She, among many other Ukrainian refugees, received comprehensive support from the Bavarian State, including language and cultural training, financial assistance, help securing housing, and job search support. The programme is far from perfect, but she is now employed and able to live independently and with dignity. This structured support programme, with clear objectives, made it easier for her to adapt to a new country and to focus on moving forward following her traumatic experience of needing to leave Ukraine. I believe this structured and supported approach is one the UK could learn from.
As Germany approaches its federal election on Sunday, February 23, (German elections always take place on a Sunday), immigration has become a central and contentious issue. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has gained traction, currently polling in second place. Their anti-immigrant rhetoric has sparked widespread protests, with over 200,000 individuals rallying in Munich to oppose far-right extremism.
Recent abhorrent incidents have further intensified the debate on immigration and security. On February 13, 2025, a 24-year-old Afghan asylum seeker drove into a crowd during a protest in Munich, injuring at least 30 people. This event, alongside other terror attacks by asylum seekers, has amplified discussions on asylum policies and public safety, influencing political discourse ahead of the election.
A challenge for Germany lies in balancing the need for the security and safety of its people while successfully enabling integration. Policies must be carefully crafted to address security without undermining the values of inclusivity and diversity.
Germany stands at a crossroads, with the upcoming election serving as a pivotal moment in shaping the nation's approach to immigration and integration. As a British expatriate, it's evident that while challenges persist, the strides made in fostering a cohesive and inclusive society are commendable, and I have witnessed how my friend was helped to settle here. The path forward requires nuanced policies, informed public discourse, and a commitment to striving for a cohesive and inclusive society. Let’s hope the results of the election will support a safe and united Germany that puts people at the heart of what matters.
All articles posted on this blog give the views of the author(s), and not the position of the IPR, nor of the University of Bath.
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