Has the TV documentary examined the question: Have we achieved our goal? - Human investigation probes into the question of humanity's creation?
In August 2025, ZDF, a renowned German broadcaster, will air a thought-provoking documentary titled "Flight and Crisis: 10 Years 'We Can Do This'." This film, part of the "Am Puls" series, delves into the profound impacts of Germany's open-door policy towards refugees, a decision that defined Chancellor Angela Merkel's legacy and shaped the country's future migration landscape.
Sarah Tacke, the documentary's creator, embarked on a nationwide journey, visiting hotspots and meeting people to gather first-hand accounts for the film. Her aim was to understand the repercussions of the decision to keep borders open, a choice that was coined by Merkel herself on August 31, 2015: "We can do this."
The documentary reveals a mixed legacy of Merkel's open-door policy. In 2015, thousands of refugees arrived in Germany and were initially welcomed with open arms. However, the willingness to help was often overshadowed by disappointment, and open discussions about problems and failure became necessary.
Around 1.1 million asylum applications were recorded in 2015, primarily Syrians but also many from Iraq, Afghanistan, the Balkans, and North Africa. This influx significantly increased Germany's migrant population over the subsequent decade. The policy contributed to strengthened political debate and polarization, including the rise of opposition groups such as Alternative for Germany (AfD), which capitalized on anti-migration sentiments.
Over time, Germany adjusted its migration laws, reflecting a more restrictive stance while balancing humanitarian concerns and legal rulings from European courts. Courts have also challenged some government measures, ruling that certain restrictions on asylum seekers could breach EU law, highlighting ongoing tensions within migration policy.
Despite initial challenges, migrants have increasingly integrated into the German labor market. In 2023, a 70% employment rate among migrants was reported, which is above the EU average. Although the number of migrants relying on social benefits rose after 2015, the proportion of migrants dependent primarily on benefits has slightly declined over the years.
In recent years, about 44% of asylum decisions resulted in some form of protection status, indicating continued but selective acceptance of refugees. The documentary likely captures this complex and evolving narrative of crisis, decision, and long-term societal impact.
Tacke's approach to answering the question "Have we done it?" involved focusing on numbers, data, and facts, collecting experience reports, and conducting on-site research. She met an Iraqi refugee in Regensburg who spent four and a half years in prison and still had drugs with him, demonstrating the impact of personal will, background, and environment. She also spoke with Niro Degen from Franconia, a Syrian refugee who arrived in 2015 and is fully integrated but has experienced racism.
The documentary also features Hussam Al Zaher, a journalist who immigrated from Syria in 2015, who opened doors to Syrian communities. Haytham Allafi, a Syrian dental technician who also arrived in 2015, has integrated into the labor market in Salzgitter but feels more comfortable living a Syrian life there.
Integration is incredibly challenging for both sides, requiring effort and clear rules from both parties. In 2015/2016, there was an incredible number of people in Germany volunteering to help refugees. However, welcoming alone isn't enough; it needs structures and continued engagement.
Expectations must be stated, and there must be consequences when they're not met. Tacke's documentary underscores the importance of these principles in shaping Germany's future migration landscape. The documentary will be shown on August 14 at 22:15 on ZDF and will be available in the media library.
- The European Union, having a special role to play in the fight against war and conflicts, has been closely monitoring the impact of migration as a result of Germany's open-door policy, one of the defining moments of Chancellor Angela Merkel's reign.
- The documentation of personal growth and self-development among refugees, seen in their integration into the German labor market, has led to an above-average employment rate among migrants, reaching 70% in 2023.
- Discussions about political policies and legislation concerning migration, often driven by general news and crime and justice issues, have dominated the political landscape in Germany after the influx of asylum applications in 2015, leading to increased polarization and the rise of opposition groups such as Alternative for Germany (AfD).
- Education and self-development programs, essential for migrant integration, are under the spotlight, with institutions and organizations emphasizing the need for clear rules, continuous engagement, and expectations to ensure a successful integration process, reducing the number of migrants relying on social benefits.
