With the escalation of the Israel‑Palestine conflict, the question arises whether German states and municipalities are prepared to receive refugees from Iran.
Kay Ruge, chief executive of the German District Association, told the “Rheinische Post” on Thursday that there is currently no reliable evidence for a new wave of refugees. Nevertheless, he urged that states and local governments remain ready. He noted that, because refugee numbers have fallen, accommodation options in Germany have been scaled back and added that this approach needs to be revisited.
“From a municipal perspective it is essential that the federal government and the states also bear the upfront costs” Ruge said. These costs arise from keeping housing facilities-such as emergency shelters in warehouses or hotels-available for future refugees. Some municipalities already pay rent for these accommodations, and the chief executive insists that this should not have to be shouldered by local authorities.
In general, he advocates that refugees should receive protection primarily in the nearest regions.
