Nearly a decade after the 2015 asylum wave, almost half of Syrians in Germany still rely on welfare, challenging claims they significantly bolster the country’s labor force.
As of August 2024, data from the Federal Employment Agency shows 518,050 Syrians depend on Bürgergeld benefits, underscoring persistent struggles with integration.
Only 32.7% of Syrians hold jobs subject to social insurance contributions, far below the 65.3% employment rate among Germans, despite Syrians being, on average, younger. Many migrants lack professional qualifications, making workforce participation a tall order.
Enzo Weber, head of the Institute for Labor Market and Vocational Research, recently suggested that voluntary returns for Syrian workers wouldn’t disrupt Germany’s labor market. “Those who wish to return should not be hindered,” Weber remarked, proposing that returning migrants could aid Syria’s reconstruction.
Germany’s asylum policies are under growing scrutiny. The Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) announced a temporary freeze on Syrian asylum applications, mirroring similar moves across Europe. The CDU/CSU, expected to dominate February’s elections, supports encouraging Syrians to return home. CSU leader Markus Söder emphasized, “When the reason for asylum no longer exists, there’s no legal reason to stay.”
Some politicians advocate stronger measures. Jens Spahn proposed chartering planes and offering financial incentives for voluntary returns, while the far-right AfD has bluntly called for prompt repatriation. Austria has already led the way, arranging returns for an estimated 100,000 former Syrian refugees. Similarly, Sweden’s right-wing bloc has hinted at revoking residence permits if circumstances in Syria improve.
As debate heats up, Germany wrestles with how to balance compassion, integration challenges, and shifting migration dynamics.
