The Labor Market in Germany and Mass Layoffs: What Awaits Ukrainian Refugees in 2025.

Ukrainian refugees in Germany may face rapid changes that will affect their situation in 2025. In particular, this concerns changes in the labor market, discussions about the return of refugees to their homeland, and a new composition of parliament. Large companies have announced mass layoffs, and the shortage of workers has lost its sharpness. Also, according to a survey, one in three Germans considers refugees a potential threat to the country's economy. After the parliamentary elections, the rules for providing assistance to Ukrainian refugees may change, and discussions about their return to their homeland may begin. Therefore, experts advise Ukrainian refugees to look for work to avoid dependence on social assistance.

The German labor market, which until recently suffered from a shortage of personnel, is undergoing significant changes. Large companies are announcing mass layoffs: Bosch plans to lay off 3,800 employees, Ford – 2,900 people, Thyssenkrupp – 5,000, SAP – 3,500, and Volkswagen intends to cut more than 35,000 jobs over the next five years.

According to a study by the 'ifo' institute, fewer and fewer companies plan to expand their staff, while the number of those reducing jobs is increasing. Public sentiment is also changing, as one in three Germans perceives refugees as a threat. Parliamentary elections may lead to changes in the policy of providing assistance to refugees, and after the inauguration of the new U.S. President Donald Trump, international efforts may begin to establish peace in Ukraine, which could provoke discussions about the return of Ukrainians to their homeland.

However, this discussion will mainly concern recipients of social assistance rather than those who work and pay taxes. Therefore, experts advise Ukrainian refugees to seek work as soon as possible, considering the worsening economic conditions and possible changes in the social support system.