A recent study revealed that 59% of respondents believe there has been a deterioration in how immigrants are treated or perceived in German society over the past few years.
The figures are different regarding workplace discrimination linked to Portuguese nationality. Among respondents, 67% claim never to have experienced discrimination, 22% have, and 11% have witnessed discrimination, though not as direct victims.
Around 200 Portuguese residents in Germany participated in the survey. The ASPPA reached out to community members by utilizing social media, engaging with over 20 groups on Facebook and LinkedIn, newsletters, and support from consulates, as well as messaging over 50 associations across the country.
The majority of participants have lived in Germany for more than seven years and have completed higher education. Most, 47.3%, feel welcomed by the local community, 26.6% feel very welcomed, and 7.7% do not feel well received.
Regarding connections to the Portuguese community in Germany, 36% of respondents reported feeling no connection, 27% claimed no active community in their area, and 37% felt connected to the Portuguese community.
In addition to consular services, 60% of Portuguese living in Germany admit not using other institutions or associations.
Interviewees suggested improving consular services, integration support, and Portuguese language education for better support to emigrants.
Declining quality of life and job opportunities are the two primary concerns of Portuguese participants in this study.
The ASPPA will unveil the study results today during their annual event, Portal, which this year takes place in a hybrid format with in-person participation in Dusseldorf and online via Zoom.
