Embracing Cultural Practices in Germany

Millions offered aid to refugees in 2015 amidst opposition, with numerous infrastructure still standing today.

, and Administrator

2025 September 26 . 2:21 AM

2 min read

Embracing Cultural Practices in Germany

In the autumn of 2015, the city of Bremen found itself at the heart of a significant humanitarian effort. As the refugee crisis unfolded, the state converted 20 sports halls into emergency shelters, one of which was located in Borgfelder Saatland.

Among the many individuals who stepped forward to help was Hermann Vinke, a retired radio journalist. Vinke, inspired by his friendship with Rupert Neudeck, dedicated his time to support the refugees in Borgfeld. His efforts ranged from accompanying them to dental appointments and job interviews, to mediating when a phone went missing, and promoting a culture of "respect" within the community.

During their 123-day stay, 80 unaccompanied minor refugees from Afghanistan, Syria, Iraq, Somalia, Sudan, Guinea, Albania, and Morocco called the sports hall home. After this period, they were returned to the TSV and SC Borgfeld and moved to other accommodations.

The spirit of support for refugees was not confined to Borgfeld alone. Migration researcher Werner Schiffauer estimated that over 15,000 "newly created or already existing projects" were initiated across Germany to support refugees from August 2015 onwards. According to a 2016 estimate, around five million people in Germany participated in these efforts.

One of the most notable figures in this movement was Martin Patzelt, a CDU politician. In 2014, Patzelt called for people to take in refugees, especially mothers with young children, in their own homes or apartments. This appeal, while met with mixed reactions, led to two Eritreans moving into Patzelt's house in Brandenburg's Briesen in 2015.

Patzelt set conditions for the Eritreans in his house: they had to work and learn German. This approach, while controversial for some, was part of Patzelt's commitment to integration. Despite facing threats and provocation, Patzelt continued his efforts, even deciding to stay in politics beyond his planned retirement in 2017 due to the AfD's candidacy in his constituency.

Fast forward to 2025, construction began on a new refugee accommodation in Borgfeld. The three-story building, with 35 apartments and around 100 places for recognized refugee families, aimed to provide a permanent home for those in need. However, the construction faced opposition from some residents, who filed an objection.

Despite these challenges, the spirit of solidarity remains strong in Bremen. Uwe Rosenberg, for instance, has announced a reunion for 80 young refugees in October at the leisure center of the Red Cross. The event, which will be attended by the refugees, volunteers, and Bremen's mayor, serves as a testament to the resilience and unity shown by the community during the crisis.

The distribution of refugees must be fair across the entire city area, according to the mayor, to prevent devaluation of houses. This approach reflects the city's commitment to ensuring a balanced and inclusive environment for all its residents.

In conclusion, the refugee crisis of 2015 presented challenges for Bremen, but it also brought out the best in its people. Initiatives like those taken by Vinke, Patzelt, and many others continue to this day, demonstrating the city's enduring spirit of solidarity and resilience.