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German principled stand on refugees is also practical

Europe can lay down rules but must not raise physical barriers.

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Published: Mon 7 Sep 2015, 12:00 AM

Last updated: Mon 7 Sep 2015, 9:13 AM

Germany has done the right thing by inviting refugees fleeing persecution in Syria. It is an issue of principle for Angela Merkel's government, which wants to wash away the blemish of a hoary past linked to its role during World War II. It's also a practical decision for the German economy, the European Union's lone bright spark, as the 28-member bloc grapples with multiple economic and humanitarian crises.
Chancellor Merkel, normally comfortable pulling strings behind the scenes, is leading from the front this time. The country has, so far, not set limits for the number of refugees it will welcome. Germany can afford to house more people as it needs a younger workforce as it cements its position as an economic giant in Europe. The country is expected to receive 800,000 refugees this year alone; it still needs more hands over the next 10 years to run its booming manufacturing sector.
Syrian refugees with the right skills could prove useful to Berlin's plans to reinvigorate its economy in the long term. So the rush is on for seats at the German high table among able Syrians, but the tricky issue will be of integration. Language and culture poses barriers. For those who have risked so much to reach European shores, this will be a cakewalk if they put their hearts to it.
But can Germany use its clout to make the continent walk the extra mile for these migrants? A shattered people have come this far and it would be inhumane to turn them back. Europe can lay down rules but must not raise physical barriers. It's a matter of principle, even if most countries cannot afford to be practical like Germany.