Migration-Flight-Integration: Contributions of Social Work in Germany

Zusammenfassung

“Wir schaffen das” (Merkel 2015) [‘We can do it’]. In the summer of 2015, the refugee movement coming from the South and Middle East was unmissable on Bavarian autobahn and highways and this world famous phrase by the German Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel gained attention in the media. Studies, numerous publications etc. illustrated the heterogeneity of this group of refugees as well as the challenges for our society, which has had experience with migration movements for a while (since the beginning?). However, in parts of the society the call for homogeneity becomes apparent through demonstrations and elections (e.g. AfD).

Regarding this, Social Work provides various aids on a strategic and operational level (macro, meso and micro) in the church, municipal and private sector within and over the boarders. On an international level, Social Workers take action in the field of combating the root causes of flight (development aid, peace building and empowerment), working with the family members who still reside in the area of crisis, as well as reintegration of returnees. Besides supporting refugees on their journey, this profession is also active in both integrating refugees in society and strengthening host communities. Because of this social development e.g. schools and businesses, as well as multipliers and stakeholders (teacher, Social Worker, etc.) demand global competencies; Universities are encouraged to act upon this on a strategic and operational level.