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Big hopes and harsh realities: How migration shaped Germany

26:03

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August 14, 2025

In 2015, at the height of the refugee crisis, Germany welcomed hundreds of thousands of refugees. What has worked, what has failed – and what's the mood in the country today?

In 2015, Angela Merkel declared “We can do it,” opening Germany’s doors to hundreds of thousands of refugees. A decade later, the country reflects on the impact: 3.5 million refugees now live in Germany, contributing to society but also facing integration hurdles. In this episode of Focus on Europe, we explore the successes, challenges, and political shifts that have shaped Germany’s immigration journey — and what lies ahead.

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Focus on Europe — Spotlight on People

What drives people in Europe – politically, socially and culturally? How do Europeans lead their lives? What are their views, hopes and fears? Focus on Europe – Spotlight on People provides the answers.

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