Germany Sees Surge in Refugee Naturalizations, But Xenophobia Concerns Rise
Germany has seen a significant shift in refugee integration and sentiment. The proportion of naturalized refugees has surged, while concerns about xenophobia have risen. Meanwhile, the government has pledged to address irregular immigration.
The proportion of naturalized refugees in Germany has more than tripled, jumping from 2.1% in 2021 to 7.5% in 2023. This increase reflects a growing desire among refugees to integrate fully into German society. A survey conducted between 2013 and 2019 revealed that 98% of refugees expressed a wish to become German citizens.
Refugee men in East Germany, however, faced more barriers in finding both housing and employment. Despite this, the overall sentiment among refugees has shifted. In 2023, only 65% felt welcome in Germany, a significant drop from 84% in 2017. More than half of refugees in 2023 expressed some or significant concern about xenophobia, according to a DIW Berlin study that found this figure had increased from a third in 2019.
Syrian refugees led the way in citizenship gains and application rates among all refugee groups. The new German Citizenship Act, implemented in mid-2024, has made this process more accessible by reducing the required residency time from eight to five years.
While the proportion of naturalized refugees has increased, so have concerns about xenophobia. The government, following the anti-immigration party's election success, has pledged to tackle irregular immigration. Despite challenges, refugees continue to strive for integration, with Syrian refugees leading the way in citizenship applications.
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