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The Global Story

From welcome to wary: Europe's divide on migration

Feb 20, 2025
Jess Parker, BBC's Berlin correspondent, sheds light on Germany's shifting stance on migration since the 2015 crisis, highlighting a Syrian family's struggles with integration amidst rising far-right sentiments. Mark Lowen, a former Southern Europe correspondent, discusses newly established migration routes and the political fallout in Italy. They explore the divided views across Europe on migration policy, the challenges of identity politics, and the lasting impact of the migrant experience in shaping public sentiment.
24:55

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The public discourse in Germany has shifted from welcoming immigrants to concerns about public safety and illegal immigration ahead of elections.
  • Personal narratives, like that of Alia and her son Rami, illustrate the challenges of integration amidst rising societal tensions and discrimination.

Deep dives

The Changing Landscape of Migration in Germany

Migration has become a significant issue in Germany, particularly as elections approach. The public discourse has evolved from an initial focus on welcoming immigrants to newer concerns about public safety and illegal immigration. High-profile incidents, such as knife attacks involving asylum seekers, have intensified scrutiny on foreign-born residents and fueled discussions about integration. As a result, migration now ranks alongside the economy as a pivotal topic influencing voter sentiment in the upcoming elections.

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