Nazi Germany and the 21st Century Refugee Crisis: How Does it Connect?

 Trigger Warning: Mention of suicide attempts and graphic physical injury

If you were to do a quick Google search on what European country is most accepting of refugees and immigrants, Germany would be the first country to pop up in the results. The reality, on the other hand, doesn’t paint quite an accepting picture. Refugees from Sierra Leon are understandably angry that after years of seeking security through the German government and repeatedly being turned away, that Ukrainian refugees are getting guaranteed housing and employment. While this is at no fault of the Ukrainian people, it does present the picture of racism, xenophobia, and that of the like. Again, there is no doubt that Ukrainian refugees are facing trauma and desperately need relocation during this Russian invasion, but this fact shouldn’t overshadow the plight of others who need assistance just as badly. I met with a refugee from Afghanistan who had attempted suicide when told that he was facing deportation. The fact that he saw death as a more rational choice than returning to a regime-changed country should speak volumes about the unlivable conditions of his old home. I met with another refugee, a wonderful woman from Nigeria, who was struggling with finding work and schooling while raising her child. In addition to these basic needs not being met, she is confined to a small room with her child, along with three other roommates (and possibly even their children). Due to these confined spaces, her son was, unfortunately, the victim of a water-burning incident. These are some of the many unheard stories of victims of forced migration.

How does this relate to Nazi Germany? Well, the infamous fascist movement was emboldened by white grievances, power instability, and economic turmoil of the time. Refugees are victims of all these realities. Because they have virtually no political power, they are easy targets for fascist leaders to prey on.  Additionally, their historical villainization makes them an easy scapegoat for those who narrow them down to a single story, like the ones Chimamanda Adichie warned us to steer clear from.

While Google searches indicate Germany has made a full 180, there is no doubt that migrants and minorities still face discrimination to this day. Even though progress has been made, it benefits Germany to continue its progressive refugee policy much more than if it were to settle into complacency. The current climate of fascism proves that old regime types can resurface, so it is best to remain diligent in educating the public.