The Future of Migration and Integration Policy in Germany
A new German paradigm accepts permanent immigration, expands citizenship, and links integration policy to demographic and labor needs.
Since 2000, the German government has undertaken a series of steps to reform laws and shape public opinion in order to bring about better integration and managed migration. This can be said to constitute a new policy paradigm, the goal of which is to integrate nonnationals and promote harmonious community relations. This new paradigm also involves controlled, small-scale labor migration of third-country nationals.
The policy shift ended a longstanding public and political pretense that Germany “is not a country of immigration.” The reality, based on 2005 micro census data, is that just under one-fifth of the overall population is of immigrant origin. Despite this considerable progress, the German government still must address policy gaps in three main areas in order to effectively reform its migration and integration systems to meet the needs of the 21st century: Integration and social cohesion; equality for third-country nationals; and modern labor migration policies.
Table of Contents
I. Introduction: The Evolution of Migration and Integration Policy in Germany
II. Shifting Migration Patterns
III. Opposing Policy Pressures and Challenges on the Horizon
IV. Current Challenges and Policy Gaps
V. Policy Strategies and Recommendations
VI. Conclusion
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