Immigration in focus: New statistics on labor market participation!

Immigration in focus: New statistics on labor market participation!

The integration of immigrants into the labor market remains a central issue in Germany. The current unemployment, employment and SGB II assistance rates are important indicators for assessing the status of this integration. The unemployment rate is understood as the ratio of the registered unemployed to the civilian workforce, which includes both employed and unemployed people. The employment rate, on the other hand, measures the proportion of the working-age population who have social insurance or part-time employment. Ultimately, the SGB II assistance rate reflects the proportion of the population that is dependent on basic security for job seekers according to SGB II, explains the Federal Employment Agency.

To better understand the current situation, the odds should be interpreted with caution. This is due to the different data sources used for these calculations. The unemployment figures and those entitled to SGB II benefits are based on data from employment agencies and job centers, while employee data comes from reports from employers. In addition, the population data comes from the Central Register of Foreigners (AZR), which, however, only records foreigners who have lived in Germany for longer than three months. The experts emphasize the handling of this data, including the conspicuousness of implausible odds.

Current employment figures

A look at the numbers shows that the employment rate for foreigners in December 2022 was 53.9% according to the population update and 47.4% based on the AZR data. The SGB II assistance rate for foreigners in the same period was 22.3% according to the population update and 20.8% in the AZR. This discrepancy between sources highlights the importance of considering the quotas separately to avoid misunderstandings.

• Arbeitslosenquote für Ausländer: 13,9 % (zivile Erwerbspersonen) und 14,2 % (eingeschränkte Bezugsgröße).
• Beschäftigungsquote für Ausländer (Dezember 2022):
• 53,9 % (Bevölkerungsfortschreibung)
• 47,4 % (AZR)
• SGB II-Hilfequote für Ausländer (Dezember 2022):
• 22,3 % (Bevölkerungsfortschreibung)
• 20,8 % (AZR)

Special challenges for refugees

In addition, the Ukraine conflict has led to an increase in refugees who have received a simplified admission procedure and a work permit since February 2022. This affects the structures put in place to help these people. The need for effective integration is reinforced by such dynamic influences.

The complexity and diversity of the topic of immigration and integration is reflected not only in the numbers, but also in the politics, which are constantly evolving. Regional characteristics and national projects are becoming increasingly important in this context as society adapts to the challenges and opportunities that come with growing diversity. The ORF NOE highlights that these developments also provide scope for discussions and long-term strategies.