New Research by More in Common: How to Reopen a Constructive Debate on Migration

Berlin, 12 August 2025 – Border rejections, deportation moratoriums, and ten years of “We can do this” – migration remains a contentious issue in Germany. Many people find it difficult to discuss the topic calmly. A new policy paper by More in Common, supported by the Robert Bosch Stiftung, shows that constructive dialogue is possible – provided key concerns such as government control and capacity to act, as well as the contributions of migrants to society, are taken seriously.

The paper is based on a sociodemographically representative survey of over 2,000 people in Germany. It reveals a mixed to critical perception of migration: 22 percent see it primarily as an opportunity Germany should embrace; 32 percent view it as a necessity the country must manage; and 39 percent regard it as a threat that should be countered.

For a majority of respondents, controlling who enters the country is more important than simply reducing immigration numbers (61 percent vs. 29 percent). There is also broad support for both stronger border security and the expansion of legal migration pathways – for example, for skilled workers. Commenting on the findings, Ben Mason-Sucher, author of the paper “Constructive Conversations: Five Questions for a Future-Oriented Migration Debate”, says:

“People don’t approach migration in a binary ‘yes or no’ mindset. Instead, they try to reconcile different priorities.”

A central focus is on a capable state. According to the research, citizens want immigration policy to be effective, transparent, and solution-oriented. This means, for example, that individuals required to leave the country should be deported consistently, while integration-promoting measures such as language courses should be expanded. The immigration management of both the EU and Germany’s federal government receives negative ratings from large majorities (71 and 77 percent respectively). Local authorities and civil society are viewed more favorably. The study also shows that many people link migration with economic strength. The employment of migrants in key industries is seen as the most important benefit of migration for Germany. However, 19 percent believe that migrants and refugees bring no advantages to the country.
Hannes Einsporn, Senior Migration Expert at the Robert Bosch Stiftung, comments:

“The survey reveals which values people consider important in migration policy – a picture far more nuanced than current political debates suggest.”

The most important condition for integration, according to 76 percent of respondents, is learning the German language. 49 percent believe that migrants and refugees should be able to retain their values and customs as long as they respect German laws. In contrast, 45 percent think migrants should adopt German values and customs in addition to following the law. The study also highlights that fears of violence – both by and against migrants – significantly shape public perceptions of the debate. Ben Mason-Sucher on the findings:

“Migration and immigration are complex issues, but even in today’s climate, they can be discussed constructively. Our data offers insights into how a factual and solution-oriented migration policy in Germany can be shaped – beyond polarized camps.”

More in Common is fully dedicated to the issue of social cohesion. Our goal is to strengthen the core of society so that it can respond to change in a united and resilient way. We understand social cohesion as more than peaceful coexistence and mutual respect. It is a prerequisite for a vital aspect of democracy: the ability to engage in constructive disagreement across differences. We are a non-partisan organization working with institutional partners from a wide range of sectors. Our teams are based in the United States, United Kingdom, France, Poland, Spain, Brazil, and Germany – and we learn and collaborate across borders.

The Robert Bosch Stiftung works in the fields of health, education, and global issues. Through its funding, it advocates for a just and sustainable future. The foundation is charitable, independent, and non-partisan.
It is rooted in the legacy of Robert Bosch, whose dual mandate was to ensure the continued existence of the company and to carry forward his commitment to social responsibility.
The Robert Bosch Stiftung GmbH operates its own institutions, develops innovative projects, and supports initiatives at both international and local levels. The foundation shares insights from its work with experts and contributes to public discourse.