ドイツの移民・難民を対象とする統合コースの基本理念と現実

This article presents the basic concepts and reality of the integration course for migrants and refugees in Germany.
In Germany, the Immigration Act came into force in 2005. The law was drafted based on the report by the Independent Commission on Migration. In this 323-page report, “Zuwanderung gestelten – Integration födern”, various facts pertaining to immigration, potential problems to be solved, and basic concepts of living together are presented. On this basis, the Commission has made various recommendations.
The Commission considers that the German language is the key to integration and has examined the integration programs of other countries, especially the Netherlands and Sweden. Based on the Dutch and Swedish models, the Commission came up with the basic concepts for the integration program in Germany.
Most of the Commission’s concepts and recommendations have been realized. In 2017, approximately 189,000 courses were offered. However, the rapidly increasing number of immigrants and asylum seekers is also causing problems. Japan is preparing to allow migrants in the near future, and will certainly face the same problems as Germany. The German approach and experiences may give Japan suggestions as to possible solutions.