Societal matters - Unions Plea for Increased Funding for Integration Tasks
Numerous Saxon unions and organizations have voiced their support for significantly increasing funding for integration tasks. They explained in a position paper released Thursday that financial resources are essential for civil society engagement in the realm of refugees and migration. Despite negative media narratives, many Saxon citizens have advocated for an active welcoming culture since 2015. Without a robust civil society, the challenges in Saxony cannot be surmounted, the document stated.
Now, they argue for "a firm commitment and substantial expansion of the existing funding programs to support integration tasks," it went on. They suggest merging funding and control structures, perhaps in a suitable ministry, rather than controlling funds through the Saxon Development Bank. Democratically legitimate and professional control is always possible in a ministry. In addition, they advocate for the adoption of a Saxon integration and participation law.
David Eckhardt, the managing director of AWO Saxony, highlighted the fact that the Saxon labor market may face a shortage of around 150,000 workers by 2030. Therefore, integrating refugees holds immense potential, he pointed out. Alongside AWO, Diakonie Sachsen and the Paritätische Landesverband were among the signatories of the appeal.
Updated Position Paper
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The unions' position paper calls for substantially increasing the existing funding programs for integration tasks in Saxony, acknowledging their vital role in addressing challenges related to refugees and migration. An expansion of these programs is seen as crucial, considering that Saxony may be short of 150,000 workers by 2030. The need for a strong civil society in social affairs, particularly migration matters, was emphasized in the call for expansion. This expansion goes beyond the Saxon Development Bank and advocates for democratically legitimate and professional control within a suitable ministry. Moreover, the paper advocates for the creation of a Saxon integration and participation law. While Diakonie Sachsen and the Paritätische Landesverband signed the appeal, Dresden, as a Saxon city, might also benefit from these funding programs and integration efforts, contributing to a more socially harmonious community in the face of migration.
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Revised and Rephrased Excerpts from Enrichment Data
- Cohesion Policy Funds in Lower Saxony essential for addressing transformation challenges, managed at local levels.
- European Territorial Cooperation (Interreg) program contributes to European integration, promoting amicable relationships across neighboring nations.
- Integration of refugees is a municipal responsibility in Germany, with municipalities facing challenges in providing accommodation.
- Revising accommodation regulations for asylum seekers is proposed to alleviate the burden on municipalities.
- Additional investment funds required to bolster the effect of Interreg programs and increase municipal infrastructure funding for immigration.
- Initiatives like Solidarity Cities and the European Integration and Development Fund are essential for financial support and cooperation in municipal infrastructure development.
- Facilitating refugees' access to education and the labor market important for effective integration into society.
- Interdisciplinary and international cooperation are key to addressing integration challenges effectively.
These funding programs and proposals aim to address the complex challenges of integrating refugees and migrants into German society, focusing on infrastructure development, social support, and educational opportunities.
