Study Debunks Claims of Large-Scale Money Transfers by Refugees

Research finds only 7% of refugees in Germany send money abroad, challenging arguments for restrictive payment cards.

A study by the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW) reveals a decline in refugees sending money abroad, dropping from 13% in 2013 to 7% in 2021.
The research challenges the justification for introducing payment cards for asylum seekers, which limit cash withdrawals and international transfers.
Data shows refugees are less likely to send money abroad compared to Germans without migration backgrounds, contradicting widespread assumptions.
Study authors emphasize that remittances are crucial for poverty reduction and align with global sustainable development goals.
The economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to a decline in remittances, as refugees faced worsening financial conditions.