Brandenburg’s Refugee Organizations Urge More Humanity in Policy Amid Deportation Concerns

In recent years, refugee organizations in Brandenburg have been critical of the state’s refugee policy. They have emphasized the lack of progress in improving accommodation for refugees over the past decade, noting a shortage of living space as well as staff to handle job and apartment applications promptly.

Ahead of the upcoming Interior Ministers’ Conference in Potsdam, several organizations are raising concerns about the treatment of refugees and calling for action to protect them from racist incitement. One of their central demands is for refugees to be treated with respect and protection rather than being scapegoated for broader societal issues. Demonstrations and events are planned to highlight the need for refugee rights and protection.

Criticism is also directed towards plans to build a deportation center on Oder Island, with concerns about pushing refugees into illegality due to its isolated location. Discussions around deportations, citizen’s allowance for Ukrainian refugees, and outsourcing of asylum procedures continue. Refugee organizations stress the importance of upholding human rights and preventing radicalization through social support and integration programs.

Activists and refugees themselves have highlighted challenges such as limited payment cards, long waiting times for asylum decisions, and lack of access to resources. The need for timely processing of applications, adequate housing, and equal treatment of all refugees is emphasized. Overall, there are calls for a more humane and rights-based approach to refugee policy in Brandenburg and beyond.