Germany is facing a massive migration challenge, particularly in Berlin where available spaces are running out. As a result, migrants are being accommodated in hotels and hostels, but even this poses a problem as three-quarters of the designated rooms for newcomers are already occupied. Where will this migration frenzy lead?
Cansel Kiziltepe, the senator for social affairs in Berlin, reported at the end of September that by the end of the year, there should be around 1,500 places available for refugees in hotels and hostels. Berlin has already signed contracts with eleven companies, covering rooms of various capacities, including single rooms and those accommodating up to six people. However, the cost is considerable.
“Compared to large accommodation facilities, such as those at the former Tegel Airport, staying in hostels and hotels is a cheaper alternative – the current average daily rate for accommodation is 57 euros,” writes “Berliner Zeitung.”
It’s easy to calculate that 1,500 places multiplied by 57 euros means the average daily maintenance cost for migrants in Berlin will be at least 85,500 euros. Monthly, this amounts to over 2.5 million euros, and annually, it exceeds 30 million euros!
The upkeep of the lodging facility in Tegel costs “several million” per month, according to Berlin authorities. By the end of the year, the Tegel center is expected to house 7,000 people. While authorities claim that life in shelters is “relatively calm for migrants, with bathrooms and some having kitchens,” it is not a long-term solution.
“Accommodation in hostels and hotels, as well as the construction of large lodging facilities, is only an emergency solution. The truth is that successful integration requires decentralized accommodation,” said Kiziltepe. Therefore, as she added, the goal of Berlin authorities is to… build modular quarters for refugees “integrated with the neighborhood.”