The European Movement strongly advocates that the European migration policy should be built on a common agenda and not on unilateral action contrary to European values. Solidarity is key: efforts have to be made by all member states, taking responsibility and refraining from nationalistic and anti-migration rhetoric and action. However, in order to counter anti-migration sentiments, we must work on how European solutions can become a success. It is moreover important that citizens are involved in the debate, giving input on how the situation can be improved on a regional level by means of solutions on a European level.

Since 2015 more than one millon refugees have arrived in Germany. In order to enable these persons to participate in society, successful labour market integration is decisive.

Several legislative initiatives for the integration of refugees were launched last year both on the national and European level. Are there blueprints for successful projects? In which areas can Germany learn from its European neighbours? What are the legislative and practical obstacles for sustainable integration processes?

The European Movement International, the European Movement Germany and the DIHK gathered stakeholders and political representatives in order to debate the topic from different perspectives and to find common solutions. The event was the third event in the European Movement International Event Series on Migration.

Programme

Welcoming words by

• Dr. Günter Lambertz, Association of German Chambers of Industry and Commerce (DIHK), Head of the Representation in Brussels, Board Member of the European Movement Germany

Opening statements by

• Basheer Alzaalan, a Syrian refugee, Project Assistent at CARE International
• Enrico Firl, Restaurantmanager at the KaDeWe Wintergarden-Restaurant, Le Buffet Restaurant&Café Ltd., Member of the NETWORK Businesses Integrate Refugees of the DIHK

Panel Discussion with

• Thiemo Fojkar, Chief Executive of the Internationaler Bund, Board Member of the European Movement Germany
• Elisabeth Kotthaus, Deputy Head of the Political Department at the Representation of the European Commission in Berlin

Moderated by  Karoline Münz, Deputy Secretary General of the European Movement Germany

Find the event on the website of EM Germany here.