A recent survey conducted by YouGov on behalf of dpa has revealed significant public dissatisfaction with the German government's approach to both irregular migration and skilled worker immigration.

Irregular Migration Concerns

A staggering 75% of German respondents believe the government is not doing enough to curb irregular migration. A majority view irregular migration as a serious problem, with 51% deeming it "extremely serious."

Over the first ten months of the year, German federal police recorded 71,000 undocumented entries, a significant decrease from the 127,500 recorded in 2023. This decline is attributed in part to the reintroduction of border checks, which has led to increased detection and deportation of irregular migrants.

Skilled Worker Immigration

While the government has focused on addressing irregular migration, a significant portion of the public (50%) feels it is not doing enough to facilitate the immigration of skilled workers. Only 30% believe the government's efforts in this area are sufficient.

Public Sentiment and Policy Implications

The survey results highlight a clear disconnect between public opinion and government policy. The public's concerns about irregular migration and the need for skilled workers underscore the complex challenges facing Germany's immigration system. As the government continues to grapple with these issues, it will be crucial to balance public sentiment with practical policy solutions.