Fewer Asylum Seekers Arrive in Schleswig-Holstein in January
The number of refugees arriving in the northern German state of Schleswig-Holstein has declined significantly in January compared to the same month last year. According to the State Office for Immigration and Refugees, 222 asylum seekers without Ukrainian connections were registered in the state, a decrease of 67% compared to January 2024. However, this is 15 more people than the number arriving in December 2024.
Syrians and Afghans Make Up Largest Groups
Almost a third of the refugees in January originated from Syria, and just over a quarter came from Afghanistan. Turkey and Iraq accounted for 6.3% and 5.4% of asylum seekers, respectively.
Displacement from Ukraine Declines
In January, 340 displaced persons from Ukraine were recorded in Schleswig-Holstein, a reduction of nearly 38% compared to January 2024. However, this number is approximately 18% higher than in December.
State Accommodation Occupancy Decreases
The average occupancy rate in state refugee accommodations in January was 4,349 people, marking a moderate decline compared to the previous month. About 3,035 accommodation slots remained unoccupied.
Departures and Transfers
In January, 30 people who were subject to enforceable departure orders left Germany voluntarily. Additionally, 41 individuals were deported, and 28 were transferred to responsible European countries under the Dublin Regulation.
Additional Details
- The largest group of asylum seekers without Ukrainian connections in January was from Syria, with 65 people.
- The female asylum seekers outnumbered males, with 133 women and 89 men.
- The most common age group among asylum seekers was 30-39 years, with 64 people falling in this age range.
- The majority of refugee accommodations in the state are located in the districts of Segeberg (28%), Rendsburg-Eckernförde (19%) and Ostholstein (17%).
- The departure of 30 voluntarily departed individuals is considered a positive development by the State Office for Immigration and Refugees, as it demonstrates a willingness among some asylum seekers to return to their home countries when conditions improve.
Conclusions
The decrease in the number of refugees arriving in Schleswig-Holstein in January is consistent with the overall trend in Germany, where asylum applications have been declining over the past few years. While the number of Ukrainian displaced persons has also decreased, it remains significantly higher than before the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. The state government continues to provide support to both groups and is working to ensure their integration into society.
