Thuringia’s Mandatory Work Policy Doubles Job Placement for Asylum Seekers

In Schleiz, Thuringia, the introduction of a mandatory work policy for asylum seekers has yielded significant integration and employment results since its implementation in February 2024. Landrat Christian Herrgott (41, CDU) reported that, under this initiative, 228 refugees have been assigned to low-wage jobs paying 80 cents per hour, working up to 25 hours weekly. These roles include maintaining green spaces and supporting local charities, aligning with Paragraph 5 of the Asylum Seekers Benefits Act.

Herrgott highlighted a notable increase in the transition to full-time employment: 90 asylum seekers have moved into regular jobs, including sectors such as automotive and fast food. This marks a doubling of the job placement rate from 20% in 2024 to 40% in 2025. Additionally, about 10% of asylum seekers have not complied with the work requirement, resulting in financial penalties.

Beyond employment, Herrgott emphasized that the structured daily routine and social interaction facilitate language acquisition and community integration for refugees. Moreover, voluntary returns to home countries have tripled from 30 in 2023 to 90 in 2025, particularly among refugees from the Balkans.

The success of Schleiz’s model is drawing attention from other German regions, with similar programs emerging in areas like Greiz and Sankt Wendel. Herrgott noted that municipalities are seeking advice to replicate this approach, suggesting a potential broader adoption of mandatory work policies for asylum seekers in Germany.