Refugees in Germany: Can integration work? | DW News

Summary

In this DW interview, Social Democrat expert and Deputy Parliamentary Leader for Foreign Policy, Defense, and Human Rights, Mr. M, discusses Germany's handling of crises such as refugee migration, cultural integration, and the recent New Year's Eve assaults in Cologne. He emphasizes the importance of stability in foreign policy, asserting that Germany should balance human rights with pragmatic diplomacy. Addressing concerns over cultural differences and refugee integration, Mr. M stresses the need for understanding while condemning political exploitation of public fear. He also touches on Germany's stance on controversial regimes like Saudi Arabia, advocating for a more self-confident and values-driven foreign policy.

Takeaways

• 😀 The rise of global crises, such as wars and migration, is increasing the pressure on Germany, especially with a large influx of refugees.
• 😀 Many Germans are concerned about whether the country can successfully integrate people from different cultural backgrounds, particularly refugees.
• 😀 The Cologne New Year’s Eve attacks, where women were sexually molested by groups, have sparked a national debate on integration, security, and the origins of the perpetrators.
• 😀 Roland Munen emphasizes that these attacks are not just a problem for Cologne but for German society as a whole, highlighting the importance of addressing public safety concerns.
• 😀 He believes that while there are cultural differences between regions and countries, globalization and media have increased mutual understanding, making it easier to overcome these differences.
• 😀 Munen rejects the idea of a 'clash of civilizations,' stressing that most crises occur within societies themselves, and should not be framed as a fundamental cultural war.
• 😀 He advocates for a transparent investigation into the perpetrators of the Cologne attacks, ensuring that law enforcement’s findings are made public without political bias.
• 😀 Munen stresses that refugees must adhere to the rule of law in Germany, and that their background should not excuse criminal behavior.
• 😀 Despite the concerns about the integration of refugees, Munen argues that it is crucial to avoid scapegoating, as this is being used politically, especially on social media.
• 😀 He highlights the contradictions in foreign policy, particularly in dealings with countries like Saudi Arabia, which violate human rights but remain key partners due to strategic interests like oil and arms trade.
• 😀 Munen reflects on his own upbringing in a working-class family, crediting his parents for shaping his social democratic values and belief in equality and social welfare.

Q & A

What are the main concerns regarding refugee integration in Germany?

The main concerns regarding refugee integration in Germany include the ability to successfully integrate people from different cultures, with particular worries about how well refugees will adapt to German society, including its values on issues like gender equality and sexuality.

How does the current crisis in Cologne reflect broader societal issues?

The crisis in Cologne, where mass assaults occurred on New Year's Eve, highlights deep concerns about public safety, social integration, and the perception of refugees. There are fears that certain areas are becoming unsafe, leading to distrust and distress among residents, particularly regarding the behaviors of some refugees.

What is the significance of the term 'clash of civilizations' in the discussion of refugees and integration?

The term 'clash of civilizations' is seen as problematic because it oversimplifies complex issues of cultural differences. While there are differences between cultures, including in Germany, these should not be framed as a war between civilizations, but as a challenge of integration and adaptation, with an emphasis on mutual understanding and coexistence.

What role does social media play in the current debate on refugee integration?

Social media plays a significant role in shaping public opinion, often intensifying fears and prejudices by amplifying discussions that focus on the origins of perpetrators in cases like the Cologne attacks. These platforms can contribute to racialized discourse and distort the broader context of refugee integration.

What is the importance of transparency from law enforcement in cases like the Cologne attacks?

Transparency from law enforcement is crucial to ensuring public trust. The authorities need to provide clear and accurate information about the findings of investigations into crimes like the Cologne attacks, without prematurely attributing blame to any specific group. This helps maintain fairness in legal processes and prevents the spread of misinformation.

How does the situation in Cologne challenge the perception of refugees and immigration in Germany?

The Cologne incident challenges the perception of refugees and immigrants by highlighting incidents of violence and disorder. While many refugees are law-abiding and contribute positively to society, such events fuel concerns about integration, safety, and cultural clashes, particularly in the context of large-scale migration.

What is the potential impact of the Cologne attacks on German foreign policy?

The Cologne attacks could influence German foreign policy by potentially fostering a more cautious stance toward immigration and refugees, possibly leading to greater focus on stability and security. However, it is emphasized that Germany’s foreign policy should continue to balance humanitarian values with the need for stability in global relations.

Why does the interviewee stress the importance of separating regime stability from societal stability in foreign policy?

The interviewee stresses this separation because a regime’s stability does not necessarily equate to long-term peace or stability for a society. Regimes in the Arab world, for example, may suppress societal movements, but this can lead to instability in the long run if they fail to address societal needs for justice and rights.

How does the interviewer view Germany's relationship with countries like Saudi Arabia despite human rights concerns?

The interviewer acknowledges the contradictions in Germany’s relationship with Saudi Arabia, where trade and economic interests often take precedence over human rights concerns. However, they argue that Germany must continue to hold these countries accountable for human rights abuses, especially in areas like arms exports.

What influence did the interviewee’s parents have on his political views?

The interviewee’s parents, particularly his father, who was part of the working class, had a significant influence on his political views. Their values of social democracy and social policies that benefit the working class shaped his perspective on political issues, including his support for integration and social justice.