Germany's asylum sector thrives amid shrinking applications and mounting public costs

Germany's so-called asylum industry has expanded into a multi-sectoral market that remains insulated from economic downturns thanks to guaranteed state funding. Over three million asylum applications have been lodged since 2015, and in the latest year the system accommodated 113,236 newcomers compared with just 22,787 expulsions, creating a net increase of roughly five new applicants per deportation. Companies providing housing, security, transport, catering and integration services win public tenders with little scrutiny, while NGOs and lobby groups influence policy.

Analysts warn that the growing fiscal load diverts billions from municipal investment in schools, roads and other public goods, fueling public resentment. The piece calls for greater transparency about who profits from the migration system and how the costs are distributed.