Myth: Refugees are a burden on their host countries
The skilled and talented refugees we’ve met have proven time and again that they are ready, able, and willing to work hard, to contribute to the communities where they live, and to make a life for themselves and their families. They are good people who’ve often come from successful lives and careers in their home countries.
This article affirms the draw of refugees to Germany had more to do with the possibilities to work and provide for themselves, rather than seeking welfare handouts.
Why Migration Will Not Destroy the Welfare State
“The million or so migrants who arrived in Europe in 2015 were desperate people suffering from various degrees of insecurity in their home country and nearby countries officially deemed “safe” but in reality far from so. Most were seeking the security of a new home, a place to live and work in safety. They were not engaged in welfare shopping.”
Alexander Betts has had many years of experiences working with refugees and has done his own research on the topic. The results he has come to back up these facts that refugees are a gift to society and not a burden. His TED talk is worth the 16 minutes to listen to it.
What if we Helped Refugees to Help Themselves?
“The speaker has extensive experience studying — through research with a specialized group at Oxford University — the topic of his talk: the economics, policy and outcomes of refugee hosting in countries across the globe. He presents his idea — that refugees are actually a boon to societies, not a burden — alongside detailed analysis of his findings, with supporting visuals, stories and data. His talk is clear, direct and passionate.”
And, this article further backs up the research that refugees can have a profoundly positive impact on the countries where they settle.
Refugees Can be an Investment Rather than a Burden
“From Denmark to Uganda to Cleveland, studies have found that welcoming refugees has a positive or at least a neutral effect on a host community’s economy and wages.”
Written by Megan Carson
Official Statement on the Detention of Refugees and Ongoing Community Violence
With another death in Minnesota and continued violence toward individuals and groups standing up for their communities, we acknowledge the profound fear and uncertainty people are feeling--not just locally, but across the country.
On top of this, there are reports that refugees invited and admitted to our country through the U.S. Refugee Admission Program are now being detained, meaning that our new friends and neighbors feel that fear most acutely.
Refugees have already fled violence and persecution once. They came here legally, seeking safety. In moments like these, we reaffirm our commitment to building communities where refugees and immigrants can live without fear. Where they can go to work, send their children to school, and build lives of dignity and belonging.
We call for due process, accountability, and humanity in all immigration enforcement operations. We call upon our leaders to demand the demilitarization of our neighborhoods and cities. And we call on all of us to continue the work of welcoming and protecting those who have been forcibly displaced from their homes.