Checking Diversity in Federal Administration with Immigration Roots in Berlin
Relatively Few Offspring of Immigrants Hold Positions in the Federal Government - Relatively Few Offspring of Immigrants Hold Positions in Federal Government
The world of federal administration in Berlin is still undersold on the diverse representation of immigrants and their descendants, a truth revealed in a recent research study from the Integration Commissioner's office. The study recorded a 16.2% employment of individuals with migration backgrounds in the federal administration last year - a 3.1% increase from five years prior.
Compared to the current 31.9% working-age population with migration roots, the federal administration falls short, signifying a potential missed opportunity. The study considers anyone with a migration background if they or one of their parents lack German citizenship by birth.
Natalie Pawlik, the Integration Commissioner, asserts the urgent need for change: "We need to make better use of the talent offered by people with an immigration background in the public sector."
In the survey conducted across 73 federal authorities, more than 50,000 employees were scrutinized between May and June 2023. The results show that discrimination exists among workers with a migration background, particularly based on ethnicity. While 15.6% of employees without a migration background reported experiences of discrimination, the rate among individuals with an immigrant background was 23.6%. And for descendants of immigrants - over a quarter admitted to facing discrimination at work.
Despite the publication of a strategy titled "Together for more diversity in the federal administration" by the federal cabinet back in January, no concrete guidelines were provided. The strategy encouraged federal authorities to set personalized goals for diversity promotion and advocated for the establishment of employee networks.
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Discrimination on Ethnic Lines
Despite Berlin hosting diverse communities with roots in immigration, political tensions remain surrounding immigration and ethnicity. The presence of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) in certain districts or Berlin appeals to some migrants, but their stance on immigration, including the controversial 'remigration' policies, clashes with inclusive representation efforts.
Recent legal rulings in Berlin, such as the Administrative Court's decision to deny unlawful refusal of entry to Somali asylum seekers, are indicative of an active judicial system shaping migration policy and indirectly impacting administration diversity.
Challenges and Opportunities
Even though Berlin accommodates a substantial immigrant and asylum-seeker population, political factors may deter individuals with migration backgrounds from joining federal administration. The recent focus on stricter immigration controls and designating safe countries for swift deportations may impact the available talent pool.
Furthermore, greater representation would require the elimination of barriers for descendants of immigrants, such as recognition of foreign qualifications, language support, and combating discrimination. Raising awareness about the significance of immigrants and their descendants in the public sector and nurturing inclusive workplace cultures would also play a crucial role.
Though specific data on the current representation levels and existing targeted strategies in Berlin's Federal Administration remains unclear, identifying and monitoring these statistics would help measure progress and highlight areas for improvement.
- To ensure a more representative federal administration in Berlin, it is crucial to implement community policy that encourages and facilitates the employment of individuals with migration backgrounds, as outlined in the recent study from the Integration Commissioner's office.
- Amidst the debate on Berlin politics regarding immigration and ethnicity, it is essential for policy-and-legislation to address discrimination, particularly on ethnic lines in employment, as highlighted in the survey conducted across 73 federal authorities. This issue extends beyond the general news and requires a concerted effort from politics to ensure a fair and inclusive work environment for all.
