On August 31, 2025, Germany marked the tenth anniversary of former Chancellor Angela Merkel’s iconic phrase “Wir schaffen das” (“We can do this”), uttered during the 2015 European migrant crisis as Germany welcomed hundreds of thousands of refugees fleeing conflicts in Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq. The statement embodied hope and confidence in Germany’s ability to integrate newcomers, symbolizing a strong humanitarian stance years after World War II and the Holocaust.
Over the past decade, Germany has seen profound societal, cultural, and political changes resulting from Merkel’s open-door policy. Studies show that by 2022, nearly two-thirds of the refugees from the 2015 influx found employment, although migrants still face higher unemployment rates than the general population. The challenges of integration and social cohesion remain central to national discussions.
While Merkel defended her policy in speeches emphasizing collective resolve, current Chancellor Friedrich Merz has distanced himself from her approach, stating in 2025 that Germany has “clearly not” succeeded fully in managing the migration situation. The debate reflects diverging views on immigration policy within Germany and its long-term impact, even as Merkel’s phrase continues to resonate across political and social spheres.
The anniversary serves as a moment of reflection on the successes and difficulties of Germany’s refugee integration efforts and an acknowledgment of the ongoing discourse about migration and national identity.