Germany Is Getting a Surprising Boost From Syrian Refugees
There's a lot discussed about migration in Germany and other countries. It's almost always framed as a threat of some kind or another.
But looking at the data from the influx of refugees from Syria and nearby countries into Germany a decade ago (the starting point of Europe's migration crisis) shows a different picture.
In terms of labor participation, that group (who were almost completely unprepared for starting over in another country) is now almost on par with native Germans. That exceeds expectations despite early mistakes that slowed their integration.
More than 83,000 Syrians became German citizens last year -- a status that's not granted arbitrarily. Some have started businesses, others are entering critical jobs like doctors and teachers, even one has become a mayor.
Uncontrolled migration is disruptive and can strain resources initially, but the vast majority of refugees and asylum seekers want to give back, when given the chance. And the reality is that Germany needs migration to maintain its workforce and finance pensions as Baby Boomers retire.
So a more nuanced position might be the better approach for the current government than grandstanding over border controls.
Check out my piece with Bloomberg and let me know what you think.