Gaps and Challenges of Migration Policy Advice: The German Experience

The gap between scientific insights and societal perceptions of international migration is large. It stems, at least in part, from the complexity of the matter and the fears raised by the unknown. This chapter reflects upon these issues against the background of post-World War II migration and migration policy in Germany. It argues that providing robust evidence is not enough for a policy adviser to succeed. Patience, persistent argumentation, and the propagation of successful migrant role models seem to be of key importance to influencing public debates and policy-making on migration and integration. A ‘jobs approach’ that integrates both migrants and refugees early into the labour force could make a difference. Germany, while stumbling slowly on its path, has still a chance to find a proper balance between observing humanitarian migration and following economic needs.