"It was potentially achievable"
In the summer of 2015, tens of thousands of refugees crossed the German border, marking a significant moment in the country's history. Among them was Anas Modamani, a Syrian refugee whose photo would later be immortalized in Angela Merkel's book. Yet, despite the increase in hostility towards refugees, Modamani chose to remain in Germany.
Another Syrian refugee, Gaith Tasin, now works as a restorer in a Berlin gallery. He expresses gratitude for the factors of security, freedom, and optimism in Germany that he found upon arrival in 2015. However, Modamani and Tasin, like many other refugees, have expressed concern about the rise in hostility towards refugees in recent years.
Since 2015, the Berlin Association has helped around 300 Syrian refugees enter Germany through private sponsorships. However, private refugee sponsorships are no longer possible since the end of 2024, as confirmed by Katrin Albrecht, the head of the association.
According to Merkel, at least among male refugees, the employment rate is almost as high as in the overall population. This is a testament to the successful integration of many Syrians in Germany. However, Albrecht notes that integration efforts are not enough, even after ten years. She cites fear mongering and radical forces as potential obstacles to future integration.
In 2015 and 2016, around 1.1 million asylum seekers sought refuge in Germany. As of the end of 2024, there were 975,000 Syrian women and men living in Germany, according to the federal government. Since mid-January 2022, the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees has been organizing voluntary returns to Syria, with 804 returns recorded as of May 31.
Andreas Tölke, who opened the restaurant "Kreuzberger Himmel" in Berlin to provide a place of encounter for refugees and Germans, is currently in Ukraine providing aid. He emphasizes the importance of well-organized immigration for Germany to avoid dying out.
Then-Chancellor Angela Merkel made a decision to allow everyone to enter Germany, no one was stopped by the police. Merkel does not see her phrase "We can do this" and her decision at the time to take in refugees critically. Instead, she views them as a demonstration of the country's solidarity with Syria.
However, Merkel's phrase "We can do this," which became a symbol of the migration policy of the time, was not special for her. It was a reflection of her belief in Germany's capacity to handle the influx of refugees and her commitment to providing a safe haven for those in need.
In conclusion, the integration of Syrian refugees in Germany has been a complex process marked by successes and challenges. While many Syrians have integrated well, integration efforts are ongoing and face obstacles such as fear mongering and radical forces. Despite these challenges, Germany remains committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for refugees.
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