Germany may keep skilled Syrian workers

The German Association of Cities stated that it anticipates the government will adopt measures enabling skilled Syrian workers to stay in Germany, irrespective of conditions in their country of origin.

According to the association’s Executive Director, Christian Schuchardt, speaking to the Funke Media Group newspapers: “We know that many people who fled Syria have in the meantime found their way into the German labor market, including sectors that are experiencing severe shortages of skilled workers.”

Schuchardt added: “We therefore assume that the government will find a solution allowing people who fled Syria to remain in Germany, regardless of the situation in their home country, if they are needed as skilled workers and are, of course, well integrated.”

He pointed out that such a move would be economically logical given Germany’s demographic structure, and would provide clarity for both the Syrians concerned and companies.

Syrian refugee workers are considered an important factor in the German labor market and economy, especially given the significant labor shortage in the country, according to the Federal Employment Agency, which reported that around 320,000 Syrians are currently employed in Germany.

Previously, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that 80 percent of Syrians would be returned to their country within the next three years, during a meeting with Syria’s interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa. However, Merz later retracted his remarks, saying he had heard that figure from al-Sharaa.

ANHA