Return of Syrians Could Cause Labour Shortage in Germany

BERLIN: German employers, especially in the healthcare sector, are growing concerned about potential labour shortages if a significant number of Syrian refugees return to their homeland following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad. A study released on Friday by the Institute for Employment Research supports these fears, highlighting the critical role Syrian nationals play in various sectors across Germany.

Syrian Doctors and Workers Vital to Germany's Workforce

Health providers have warned that more than 5,000 Syrian doctors currently work in German hospitals, particularly in rural areas, where it is difficult to replace them. These doctors, alongside many other Syrian workers, have filled critical roles in healthcare, construction, logistics, and other sectors. In total, 287,000 Syrian nationals are employed in Germany, many of whom arrived during the refugee crisis that peaked in 2015 under former Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Despite initially being welcomed, the influx of Syrian refugees has sparked political tensions, particularly from far-right parties such as the Alternative for Germany (AfD), who argue that Syrians should return to their homeland as stability increases. However, many employers worry that such a large-scale return would exacerbate Germany's ongoing labour shortages, particularly in areas already struggling to meet workforce demands.

Impact on Key Sectors

According to researcher Yuliya Kosyakova of the Institute for Employment Research, a mass return of Syrian nationals could have significant regional and sector-specific consequences. The study indicates that Syrians are employed across a variety of industries, with men predominantly working in transport, logistics, manufacturing, food, hospitality, healthcare, and construction. Syrian women are more likely to be employed in social services and cultural sectors.

The German Hospital Association highlighted that the departure of Syrian medical professionals, who are particularly important in smaller towns, would be felt deeply in the healthcare system. Gerald Gass, chairman of the association, acknowledged that while many Syrian doctors may wish to return to Syria to assist in rebuilding the country, their absence would create a significant gap in staffing, especially in rural and underserved regions.

Concerns for Elderly Care and Other Sectors

In addition to doctors, many Syrians work as care workers in elderly care facilities across Germany. Isabell Halletz, director of the Nursing Employers' Association, warned that the departure of these workers could deal a "serious blow" to Germany’s already overstretched elderly care sector. With Germany's population ageing rapidly, these workers are seen as vital in maintaining the country's healthcare infrastructure.

The potential return of Syrian nationals raises broader questions about the future of Germany’s labour market, especially as the country continues to grapple with labour shortages in key industries. While the return of refugees to a more stable Syria is understandable, the impacts on Germany’s workforce, especially in rural and critical care sectors, could be profound.