Theme 3 Sub-theme: Die staatliche und soziale Reaktion zur Immigration

This sub-theme examines the political and social responses to immigration in Germany, focusing on the period from the post-war era to the present day. It covers the evolution of German immigration policy, from the guest worker (Gastarbeiter) programme of the 1950s and 1960s to the asylum laws and integration policies of the 1990s and 2000s. Students will explore how different governments have reacted to immigration, including the conservative approach under Helmut Kohl, the reforms under Gerhard Schröder's Red-Green coalition, and Angela Merkel's 'Wir schaffen das' policy during the 2015 refugee crisis. The sub-theme also addresses the social reactions, including the rise of anti-immigrant sentiment, the formation of political parties like the AfD, and the role of civil society in supporting refugees.

Understanding this topic is crucial for A-Level German students as it provides insight into contemporary German society and politics. It links to broader themes of national identity, multiculturalism, and the challenges of integration. The sub-theme also allows students to analyse key German texts, speeches, and media reports, developing their ability to critically evaluate different perspectives. By studying the state and social responses to immigration, students gain a deeper appreciation of Germany's role in the EU and its historical responsibility, particularly in relation to its Nazi past and the post-war commitment to asylum rights.

This sub-theme fits into the wider Edexcel A-Level German course by connecting to topics such as 'Die politische Landschaft Deutschlands' and 'Die Rolle der Medien'. It also complements the study of German history, including the division and reunification of Germany, as immigration patterns were significantly affected by these events. Students will be expected to use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures to discuss complex issues, and to present balanced arguments in both written and spoken German.