Turkish and Russian pathways to integration in Germany

Abstract

In this chapter we analyse the differences and similarities between the Turkish and Russian immigrants in Germany at the destination but also between the two countries of origin in order to assess their integration outcomes. We investigate the following question: what is the impact of the country of origin (Russia and Turkey) on integration outcomes in Germany? We found that the migrating groups have different characteristics (flows and stocks) and that each group has been subject to a different entry policy, including different rights and obligations. In fact, the structural and policy factors at the destination are the key elements that influence migrants’ successful or unsuccessful integration. The impact of the country of origin, understood as policies and practices which target diaspora for better integration, has been negligible so far; the diaspora policies do not support integration. On the contrary, they aim at re-focusing migrants’ attention back to the country of origin. This policy can have positive ramifications for integration outcomes, e.g. when it supports Turkish migrants’ cross-border business activities or enhances Russian-language proficiency among the diaspora so that they can use it later in an international business environment.