Interview with Markus Söder During the Summer: Clarifying His Statements Regarding Ukrainian Refugees Fact-Checking Process
In recent discussions, Markus Söder, the CSU party chairman and Bavarian Minister President, expressed concerns about the employment rate of Ukrainian refugees in Germany. However, a closer look at the facts reveals a different picture.
Contrary to Söder's statement that "we're creating incentives for them not to work," the employment rate of Ukrainian refugees in Germany is in line with the European average, according to a study published by the Institute for Employment Research (IAB) in November 2024. As of the first quarter of 2024, around 27% of Ukrainian women and men in Germany were employed, a figure that falls within the European average.
It's important to note that Germany is not the only country offering support to Ukrainian refugees. Almost all EU countries have granted Ukrainian refugees a special protection status, which in some cases facilitates their access to the labor market. For instance, Italy offers a temporary protection status providing access to the labor market, education, vocational training, and healthcare. Similarly, the Netherlands provides benefits like a living allowance ("leefgeld") for Ukrainian refugees.
Moreover, the majority of Ukrainian refugees who have jobs in Germany are employed in a socially insured position. By May 2025, around 35% of Ukrainian women and men had a job in Germany, according to the Federal Employment Agency.
Söder's claim that "we have well-educated people, but we're creating incentives for them not to work" is unproven. On the contrary, childcare, social networks, and good English skills play a central role in integrating Ukrainian refugees into the labor market.
The employment rate among Ukrainian refugees increases significantly with the duration of residence in Germany. According to an IAB publication, the employment rate reaches 57% six years after immigration, 63% seven years after immigration, and 68% for a duration of eight years or more.
Söder's proposal to reduce benefits for Ukrainian refugees, as suggested by his statements, would not result in savings for the budget, according to a draft paper from the Ministry of Labor. In fact, the change in legal status for Ukrainian refugees, as stipulated in the coalition agreement, will make them eligible for benefits under the Asylum Seekers' Benefits Act.
Söder wants to abolish the special regulation that allows Ukrainians to receive citizen's income instead of support for asylum seekers. However, this move could potentially increase the employment rate of Ukrainian refugees in Germany, as changes to the legal system could facilitate their access to the labor market.
It's crucial to approach discussions about Ukrainian refugees with a clear understanding of the facts. The employment rate of Ukrainian refugees in Germany is not a cause for concern, but rather a testament to the integration efforts already in place.
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