Berlin is currently in negotiations with at least six countries, including Morocco, to establish migration agreements aimed at attracting skilled workers while simultaneously reducing irregular migration.
Among these agreements, Berlin has already signed a deal with Brazil to attract skilled workers, particularly nurses.
The federal government of Germany is actively pursuing migration agreements with a minimum of six countries.
The objective is twofold: to combat the shortage of skilled labor and to mitigate irregular migration.
According to a spokesperson from the Federal Ministry of the Interior, discussions are underway in Georgia and Moldova, with preparations for talks with Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kenya, and Morocco.
These negotiations often require confidentiality due to their sensitive nature.
A significant focus is placed on Georgia and Moldova, potential candidates for European Union membership.
Joachim Stamp, the special representative for federal government migration agreements, emphasized their priority, stating that both countries offer the opportunity to immediately reduce irregular migration, and they are keen on establishing partnerships.
Stamp also highlighted that these agreements would “alleviate the burden on municipalities and courts in Germany,” classifying both nations as “safe” for such agreements.
Regarding the potential success of agreements with Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, Stamp remarked that during his recent visit, he witnessed “committed and highly qualified young workers who speak German well,” indicating a need for skilled labor.
Additionally, representatives from both governments pledged “close cooperation” concerning the repatriation of denied asylum seekers.
In light of Germany’s skilled labor shortage, economic expert Monika Schnitzer advocated for an annual migration of 1.5 million individuals.
She clarified that Germany requires an additional 400,000 workers annually, but due to many leaving the country, there is a need for more people to come, hence the figure of 1.5 million.
In early June, German Minister of Labor Heil visited a training center affiliated with the Catholic University in the Brazilian capital, Brasília, where he signed a memorandum of intent titled “Fair Migration” with Brazilian counterpart Luis Marinio.
This memorandum aims to streamline structures to enhance skilled worker exchange. The Federal German Employment Agency believes that up to 700 nurses could be employed annually from Brazil.
