In 2009, there were over 16 million people living in Germany who had a migrant background; this represents nearly one fifth of the total population. Of these, 8.8 million were nationals with a foreign background – whose working conditions are in the spotlight of this study. The federal government, the state governments, the social partners and representatives of migrant groups have set up, and are committed to, the National Integration Plan. It aims at improving the education, and particularly the language and occupational skills, of migrants in order to foster their better integration and participation in working life and German society.
Working conditions of nationals with a foreign background
German Economic Institute (IW)
More on the topic

Immigration from Latin America: Successes and potential for securing skilled workers
Against the background of the baby boomers leaving the labour market, Germany will be increasingly dependent on skilled workers from abroad in the coming years in order to secure growth and prosperity.
IW
Immigration from Southeast Asia: Success and potential for securing skilled workers
In the coming years, Germany will be increasingly dependent on skilled workers from abroad in order to avoid that gaps in the labour market caused by the retirement of the baby boomers will jeopardise growth and prosperity.
IW