It describes current statistics on the refugee situation in the municipalities and draws conclusions for successful integration in the coming years. This does not require crisis summits, but finally a Marshall Plan from the federal government.

In 2015, around 83,750 people were distributed to the cities and municipalities of Lower Saxony, and up to 132,500 are expected in 2016. This shows that Integration is not a task for the future, it starts now - from both sides - on the ground and its success is decided in the cities and municipalities.

Language acquisition as a key qualification

For the NST, learning German is a prerequisite for successful integration.

Promoting voluntary work

"For a long time now, refugee accommodation and support has only been possible thanks to an extraordinary effort by cities, municipalities and numerous volunteers. These structures would have to be financed by additional funds. Simply reimbursing expenses is not enough.

Financing Wohnraumförderung on a permanent basis

The NST expects that - including family reunification - over 300,000 of the refugees arriving in 2015 and 2016 will stay in Lower Saxony permanently. At least 50,000 additional apartments will need to be created for this.

Financing as a success factor

It must also be possible to manage these tasks financially. After all, successful integration is the prerequisite for ensuring social and internal peace in our state. The NST therefore expects the federal and state governments to bear the entire costs of integration, which would require long-term funding in the tens of billions.