Germany and Kenya Ink Migration Deal to Balance Labor Needs and Brain Drain Concerns
September 13, 2024Germany has signed a migration agreement with Kenya to better manage migration flows from the East African nation.
The agreement was signed by German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser and Kenyan Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, with Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Kenyan President William Ruto in attendance.
A similar agreement with Uzbekistan is set to be signed during Chancellor Scholz's upcoming visit to Samarkand.
These migration agreements are seen as essential for regulating immigration and facilitating the return of rejected asylum seekers.
Germany requires about 400,000 skilled immigrants annually to address labor shortages caused by an aging workforce.
However, concerns have been raised about potential brain drain from Kenya, which could leave local healthcare systems understaffed.
Public sentiment in Germany shows a majority support for stricter border controls, with 71% favoring direct rejections of visa-required foreigners who do not apply for asylum.
The political landscape surrounding migration remains contentious, with ongoing debates among parties regarding the rejection of asylum seekers at borders.
Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has urged democratic parties to collaboratively find solutions to migration issues without politicizing them during elections.
Faeser has expressed disappointment over the breakdown of negotiations with the Union party and has called for their return to the discussion table.
Both Germany and Kenya will recognize vocational training and university degrees to support the immigration of skilled workers.
Chancellor Scholz's coalition government faces challenges from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which has gained popularity in recent state elections.
Summary based on 20 sources
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Sources
BBC News • Sep 13, 2024
German opens door for thousands of Kenyan workers in labour dealYahoo News • Sep 13, 2024
Germany signs agreement with Kenya to bring in skilled workers and plug labor market gapsYahoo News • Sep 13, 2024
Germany, Kenya ink migration deal for skilled labour, repatriations