Refugee Employment in Germany: Fact vs. Fiction
During the German federal elections in December 2021, Union candidate Friedrich Merz claimed that two-thirds of Syrian refugees in Germany were not working and were predominantly young men. In January, the CSU demanded that only refugees with jobs be tolerated, and Markus Söder advocated for a mandatory work requirement for asylum seekers.
These statements have fueled the recurring accusation that many asylum seekers are refusing jobs. However, is there any evidence to support this claim?
Legal Restrictions
According to German law, refugees are not permitted to work during the first three months after arriving in the country. After this waiting period, they can theoretically take on a job. However, upon arrival, asylum seekers are required to reside in an asylum seeker reception center, where they are not allowed to work for the first six months.
Employment Statistics
Despite these restrictions, the vast majority of refugees in Germany eventually enter the labor force. According to the Federal Statistical Office, in 2021, 61% of recognized refugees aged 18 to 65 were employed. This figure is slightly lower than the employment rate of the overall population (69%), but it is significantly higher than the employment rate of people with a migrant background (45%).
Moreover, the employment rate among refugees has been steadily increasing in recent years. In 2016, only 46% of recognized refugees were employed. This suggests that refugees are becoming increasingly integrated into the German labor market.
Job Availability
It is important to note that the availability of jobs can vary depending on the region and industry. In areas with high unemployment, it may be more difficult for refugees to find work, especially in skilled occupations. Additionally, refugees may face discrimination in the job market due to their origin or language skills.
Education and Training
Many refugees arrive in Germany with limited education and professional qualifications. This can make it challenging for them to find jobs that match their skills and experience. To address this issue, Germany offers a range of educational and training programs to help refugees improve their qualifications and increase their chances of employment.
Social Support
To encourage refugee employment, Germany provides a range of social support programs, including:
- Language courses
- Childcare
- Job counseling
- Financial assistance
These programs help refugees overcome barriers to employment and integrate into the German labor market.
Conclusion
The claim that many refugees in Germany are refusing jobs is not supported by the facts. The vast majority of refugees who have been granted asylum are employed or actively seeking work. While there are challenges to refugee employment, such as language barriers and limited qualifications, Germany has implemented a range of measures to support refugees in their efforts to enter the labor force.
