The enduring division between East and West Germany has persisted even after reunification, with refugees from a decade ago finding greater success in the wealthier western regions. This disparity is exemplified by the Kadib Alban family, who relocated to western Germany from Syria and have experienced greater prosperity compared to many migrants in the eastern part of the country.
Germany’s reunification in 1990 aimed to bridge the economic and social gaps between the former East and West Germany, but the legacy of these divisions continues to influence the country’s social landscape. Recent data indicates that migrants arriving in the west have better access to job opportunities, healthcare, and social services, contributing to their improved quality of life.
Christel Deutsch, a local resident in Daun, Germany, has observed the contrast between migrants in different regions. Her home in Daun, located in the western part of the country, has become a hub for the Kadib Alban family, who have integrated successfully into the community. This example underscores the persistent socio-economic disparities that remain between the two regions, which continue to impact the integration and well-being of new arrivals.