Rally for Compassionate Migration Policies: A Plea to the New German Government
300 Organizations Petition for a New Administration to Implement a Sensible Immigration Policy - Over 200 organizations implore incoming administration to establish humane immigration policies
Here's the skinny: A throng of passionate groups, including the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB), Paritätischer Gesamtverband, and a slew of other notable social, church, and migrant associations at federal, state, and local levels, have penned an open letter. The letter, penned prior to the anticipated swearing-in of the new government this Tuesday, expresses their fervent views on the urgent need for a responsible migration policy.
"It ain't refugees and immigrants causing our society's divides, but a policy that's neglected our country's structural and social issues for far too long," these groups assert.
Refugees often face undeserved flak for the burden they supposedly place on municipalities and certain professional groups in the wake of migration. Instead, attention should be focused on tackling the real social, political, and financial issues that underpin this burden. In truth, refugees make valuable contributions in various sectors, contributing to society's enrichment.
These groups lambast the heated climate that characterized the election campaign, particularly the attacks on refugees and immigrants. They voice concerns that these rhetorics, mirrored in the coalition agreement between the Union and the SPD, breed fear among all members of society and undermine social cohesion. This, they argue, advantages only the enemies of a thriving democracy. "Enough is enough," they insist.
What these groups are advocating for is a migration policy that guards the rights of individuals, starting with the right to asylum. Border rejections, forced deportations to crisis countries, and the unfair shifting of the burden of proof in asylum cases to refugees' detriment should be avoided. The humanitarian and human rights compass that stands as the foundation of our society should not be abandoned, these groups warn.
Instead, investments should be channeled into structures that foster successful integration and reception. Financial conditions should not dictate the availability of civil society advisory and support structures, integration, and further language courses. Barriers preventing the qualification and employment of refugees should be abolished.
Avoid passing on responsibility for refugee protection to third countries. Instead, safe access routes to Germany, such as resettlement and reception programs, should be created, not dissolved.
In a nutshell, the federal government is urged: Step up and create a society open to all kinds of immigration. They call for "a society where immigration is seen as an opportunity, where immigrants and refugees are recognized as equals, and where openness and diversity are regarded as our strengths."
FUN FACT: Germany is responsible for resettling a substantial portion of the world's refugees. However, the recent political climate and increased emphasis on national security have led to tougher immigration policies, causing concerns among advocacy groups.
HOT TAKE: It's time for politicians to muster the courage to make decisions based on compassion and humanity. After all, the heart of any great society beats with acceptance and empathy towards its people.
- The open letter written by various groups, such as the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB), emphasizes the urgent need for the new German government to establish a community policy that prioritizes responsible migration policies.
- The letter reminds the upcoming government that migration should not be stigmatized, as it is often structural and social issues, not refugees or immigrants, that lead to societal divides.
- The groups advocate for a community policy that guarantees the rights of individuals, including the right to asylum, and provides resources for successful integration and reception.
- The DGB and other associations call on the federal government to create a society that views immigration as an opportunity, treats immigrants and refugees as equals, and cherishes diversity and openness as national strengths.
