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Spracherwerb der Geflüchteten von 2015 und 2016 verlief besonders erfolgreich

Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge (BAMF)Official Government Source
Germany — article image

Update Explained

A recent analysis on language acquisition among refugees who arrived in Germany in 2015 and 2016 reveals significant success in their German language proficiency. Despite initial challenges due to a rapid increase in refugee numbers, the study shows that over 90% of more than 6,300 surveyed individuals from these years now report having medium to very good German language skills. Initially, most of these refugees had no German language knowledge upon arrival, but after seven to eight years, only 9% report having poor or no German skills. This success is attributed to the opening of integration courses for refugees with a good prospect of staying in Germany, even before their asylum applications were finalized. In contrast, language acquisition for refugees arriving between 2019 and 2021 was adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, which limited social contact opportunities and the ability to participate in language courses.

What changed

Integration courses were made available to refugees with good prospects of staying in Germany from October 2015, even if their asylum procedures were not completed.

Why it matters

Refugees who arrived in Germany in 2015 and 2016 benefited from early access to language courses, significantly improving their German language skills and aiding their integration into society and the labor market.

Who is affected

  • Refugees who arrived in Germany in 2015 and 2016
  • Refugees who arrived in Germany during the pandemic years 2019 to 2021

Key details

  • More than 90% of surveyed refugees from 2015 and 2016 now report medium to good language proficiency.
  • The introduction of integration courses for refugees with a positive asylum outlook began in October 2015.
  • Pandemic restrictions from 2020-2021 negatively impacted language learning opportunities for newer arrivals.

Important notes

The language acquisition for refugees arriving between 2019 and 2021 was impacted by COVID-19 restrictions, requiring ongoing monitoring and support.

Official source

Spracherwerb der Geflüchteten von 2015 und 2016 verlief besonders erfolgreich | JustJapa