Even 65 years after the adoption of the German-Turkish recruitment agreement, Natalie Pawlik, the Federal Integration Commissioner, continues to observe racism and discrimination against Turkish people in Germany. Speaking to the Rheinische Post shortly before the event commemorating the agreement’s 65th anniversary, Pawlik stated that if someone has to give 120 percent just to be counted as 100 percent, they are not poorly integrated-they are being mistreated. She argued that this runs contrary to Germany’s self-perception as an immigration country. Pawlik noted that unfortunately, questions of belonging continue to be raised in German society, whether it is when searching for housing, applying for a job, or attending school. The federal commissioner for migration, refugees, and integration stressed that many people have experienced racism and discrimination in this country even after decades.
At the same time, she paid tribute to the contributions of Turkish people in Germany. Hundreds of thousands arrived from Turkey 65 years ago and have contributed to the country’s economic growth, started families, and shaped society across generations. “Their history is German history,” Pawlik remarked. She noted that integration policy has learned greatly from past mistakes. Today, integration begins from day one with language and integration courses, support for the recognition of professional qualifications, and educational opportunities that were not available in previous years. Pawlik emphasized that the current focus must be on maintaining these established integration structures and ensuring their sustainable funding.
The celebration for the 65th anniversary of the recruitment agreement will take place in Berlin this Tuesday. Besides the Federal Integration Commissioner, Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) and Turkish Ambassador Gökhan Turan are scheduled to give keynote speeches, and representatives from the first generation and their descendants will also be discussing the issues at the event.
