Berlin, SANA-At the heart of the German economy, renowned for its precision and productivity, stands a remarkable story of transformation. Years after arriving in the country as refugees, more than a million Syrians were able to move from refugee status to actively contributing to the economy, turning a challenge into an opportunity.
This contribution is not theoretical, as figures confirm that hundreds of thousands of them now fill major gaps in the German labor market, from specialized professions such as medicine and engineering to the construction and service sectors. This movement raises crucial questions; How did a million Syrians change the face of the German economy? Has their presence become a real driving force for prosperity in Germany? Can they be considered a new engine of economic growth?
The Syrian presence in Germany is no longer just a humanitarian issue, but has become a major component of the labor market, contributing to filling gaps in vital sectors. Of the nearly one million Syrians currently living in the country, data from the German Economic Institute indicates that about 670,000 of them have jobs, which refutes the idea that they constitute a burden on the government. This high percentage of employment reflects the extent of effort expended in professional integration.
Economic Contributions
Increased GDP:
Countries accepting refugees tend to see an increase in their Gross Domestic Product, with the German economy benefiting from the arrival of Syrians.
Stimulated Consumption:
The influx of refugees has increased overall private consumption, which contributes to economic activity.
Labor Market Integration:
Around a third of Syrians in Germany are part of the labor market, with a significant portion in skilled, unskilled, and specialist positions, working in sectors like transportation and logistics.
Tax and Social Security Contributions:
Many employed Syrians contribute to taxes and social security systems, bolstering public finances.
Filling Labor Shortages:
Refugees play an important role in filling labor needs, especially in sectors like healthcare (nearly 6,000 doctors), and increasingly in jobs requiring skilled labor and expertise.
Economic Challenges and Integration
Initial Investment:
Germany initially faced significant costs for housing, feeding, and educating refugees, as well as preparing them for the labor market.
Integration Efforts:
The success of these economic benefits hinges on effective integration policies, including vocational training, language teaching, and the recognition of informally acquired skills.
Ongoing Challenges:
Despite progress, challenges such as discrimination in the labor market and housing persist, affecting refugees’ full integration.
Long-Term Prospects
Break-Even Point:
Studies predicted that the upfront investment in integration would eventually be recouped, reaching a “break-even point” after which increased employment and consumption by refugees would further stimulate growth.
Potential for Growth:
Successful integration is projected to yield considerable economic benefits, potentially increasing the German GDP by over one percent in the long term.
Khadega/Mazen Eyon
Bloomberg
