An increasing number of rejected asylum seekers in Germany are utilizing the “StarthilfePlus” assistance program, through which the German government financially supports those who wish to return home voluntarily, German media reported on Thursday.
“So far, around 12,000 refugees have left Germany after receiving the bonus. More than 1,500 individuals left the country even before their asylum applications were processed,” stated a press release from the German government, published in response to a query from the parliamentary group of the Left Party in the Bundestag, which was reviewed by the German office of the French agency AFP, whose report is being relayed by German media.
>>> A compromise resolved the crisis of the German authorities – refugee centers are opening at the border with Austria
The “StarthilfePlus” program was launched in February 2017 and is intended for those refugees, i.e., asylum seekers, who have “little or no” chance of obtaining a long-term residence permit in Germany. Financial incentives aim to encourage these individuals to “quickly and voluntarily leave the country.”
Financial assistance ranges from 800 to 1200 euros per adult, while children under 12 are entitled to half of that amount. In cases where entire families are leaving the country, an additional 500 euros per family is provided.
>>> The number of refugees coming to Germany has drastically decreased
The highest amount, 1200 euros, is allocated for those who choose to return voluntarily to their country of origin before the asylum application processing is completed. Individuals whose asylum applications have been rejected and who waive legal remedies, i.e., appeals against this decision, receive 800 euros.
So far, this assistance has been most utilized by citizens of Iraq, followed by residents of Russia and Afghanistan. The parliamentary Left Party has strongly criticized this program of the German government. “As if merely encouraging departure to countries ravaged by war is not horrific enough, monetary bonuses are also being paid. This is the height of cynicism,” said Ulla Jelpke from the Left Party.
>>> The USA had the highest number of asylum applications in the world last year – 330,000
The Ministry of the Interior rejected the Left Party’s criticism and asserted that the entire program is based on the principle of voluntariness and announced the continuation of financial assistance. One of the main tasks that the new German government has set regarding refugee policy is to more effectively and quickly deport individuals who have no legal basis for staying in Germany.
