Asylum seekers ignore training: Who is liable for the consequences?

Asylum seekers ignore training: Who is liable for the consequences?

In Suhl there was recently an information event for asylum seekers who dealt with German laws and behavioral norms. Despite the invitation of around 120 people, only 51 found their way to the accommodation cinema. This raises questions about the motivation of the refugees who simply ignored the possibility of participation.

The lecture was an initiative of the Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund (ASB) and was held by police officers and social workers. The aim was to explain to the refugees how to behave in Germany and what rules apply here. The importance of such events should not be underestimated, especially at a time when new arrivals have to deal with a foreign legal system.

reactions to low participation

A spokesman for the Thuringian state administration commented on the situation and confirmed the descriptions of the organizers. "Overall, the response was not satisfactory," said the spokesman. In this regard, there were also critical feedback from readers who pleaded with financial incentives to link the participation in the event. A reader expressed the proposal to make these courses mandatory and to link consequences such as cuts in pocket money.

The fact that the pocket money payments to refugees took place at the same time was often mentioned as the reason for the low number of participants. An ASB employee pointed out that many had decided to prefer the payment to visit the information. This raises the question of how important asylum seekers actually know the knowledge of German laws.

The answer was always the same with regard to the questions that FOCUS addressed to the authority: There is no legal basis for signing asylum seekers to participate. So there are also no sanction options if someone should not attend the event. This means that asylum seekers have the chance to obtain important information, but do not have to take advantage of it.

important content of the events

The training deals with basic aspects of living together in Germany. Topics such as the rights and obligations in society, the respectful way of dealing with each other and information about hygiene regulations are dealt with. Such training courses should help asylum seekers to find their way better in their new environment.

Despite the commitment of those responsible, the success of such events remains questionable. As long as no legal changes are made, the state is powerless in this regard. As reported at www.focus.de , asylum seekers can continue to decide whether to take part in these vital training or not. This leaves room for improvements, both for the integration of refugees and for the acceptance of the laws in Germany.

Overall, it remains to be seen whether and when the legislature will initiate willing steps in order to make participation in such events more binding for asylum seekers. In any case, it is a point that requires a lot of discussion and consideration.