What is the history of Turkish migration to Germany?

The history of Turkish migration to Germany can be traced back to the early 1960s, when West Germany, facing a labor shortage, started recruiting guest workers from Turkey and other countries. Initially, the Turkish migrants were brought in as temporary workers, with the expectation that they would return to their home country after a few years. However, many of the migrants ended up settling permanently in Germany, and over time, their families joined them.

During the 1970s and 1980s, Turkish immigration to Germany increased significantly, and the community became more visible in German society. The immigrants faced significant challenges, including language barriers, discrimination, and social isolation. In response, Turkish Germans began to organize themselves politically and culturally, forming associations and lobbying for their rights.

The relationship between Turkish Germans and the broader German society has been complex and at times fraught. While some Germans have welcomed and celebrated the multiculturalism that Turkish Germans bring to the country, others have viewed them with suspicion and hostility. The issue of integration has been a contentious one, with some arguing that Turkish Germans should assimilate fully into German society, while others advocate for a more multicultural approach.