Labour migration to Germany from central and Eastern Europe

Abstract

"Since the end of the Second World War, millions of people of different nationalities and ethnic backgrounds have migrated to Germany. They have come from various areas of the world and all corners of Europe and included displaced Germans, immigrants and migrant workers. After 1989, Germany once again became a major destination for immigrants. Between 1989 and 1992, the average net movement of people into Germany totalled over one million annually. Most migrants moved principally for economic reasons and chose former West Germany as their destination. Today, levels of migration have declined but they are still significant. This paper begins with a summary of post-war migration trends that helps put German migration patterns since 1989 into context. The author then outlines current migration patterns and employment of foreigners, focusing on various programmes which bring migrant workers to Germany. Finally, the implications for both Germany and sending countries of using worker programmes as a substitute for both illegal immigration and a comprehensive immigration policy are explored." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

Cite article

Hönekopp, E. (1997): Labour migration to Germany from central and Eastern Europe. Old and new trends. In: IAB Labour Market Research Topics No. 23, p. 1-25.