BERLIN

Skilled foreign workers face alarming levels of discrimination in Germany, a new report revealed on Friday.

According to a survey by the Institute for Employment Research (IAB), approximately 56% of skilled immigrant workers reported facing prejudice and discrimination in at least one area of life. Housing and employment emerged as particularly problematic sectors.

The study found that 40% of respondents felt discriminated against when seeking accommodation, while 21% perceived disadvantages in the workplace. Discrimination was also reported in everyday situations such as on public transportation or in shops and restaurants.

Around 20% of immigrant professionals said they felt disadvantaged when dealing with the public administration or authorities. The study also revealed that 93% of respondents believed their ethnic background was the primary reason for the discrimination they faced.

IAB experts warned that these experiences can significantly hinder the economic and social integration of skilled immigrant professionals, potentially discouraging them from choosing Germany as a long-term destination.

The EU’s largest economy is currently grappling with an ageing population, and substantial shortage of qualified workers in the information technology, renewable energy, construction and medical sectors. The government has recently reformed the Skilled Immigration Act (FEG) to attract more qualified specialists, professionals from abroad to meet the needs of the labor market.