Dozens of Saxon associations demand expansion of support programs for integration

Dozens of Saxon associations and organizations have spoken out in favour of a significant expansion of funding programmes for integration work. The financial resources are a pillar for civil society engagement in the area of flight and migration, the 55 signatories explained in a position paper published on Thursday. Many citizens in Saxony have stood up for an active welcoming culture since 2015, despite media narratives. Without a strong civil society, the challenges in Saxony could not be solved.

The paper went on to say that "a clear commitment and a significant expansion of the existing funding programs to support integration work" was now needed. What is needed is a bundling of the funding and control structures, for example in a suitable ministry. In contrast to the allocation and control of funds via the Saxon Development Bank, democratically legitimized and professional control is always possible in a ministry. In addition, a Saxon integration and participation law is needed.

"The Saxon labor market will have a shortage of around 150,000 workers by 2030 - against this background alone, the integration of refugees with all their potential should be a top priority," said AWO state director David Eckhardt. In addition to the AWO, the Diakonie Sachsen and the Paritätische Landesverband were among the signatories of the appeal.