A New Chapter: Newly Naturalized Citizens Prepare to Shape Germany’s Future

This weekend, Germany will witness a historic moment as over half a million newly naturalized citizens cast their votes in the national election for the first time. Among them, nearly a third are originally from Syria, having fled their homeland in search of safety and stability. Many left behind the devastation of war, political turmoil, and economic hardship, separatelyleaving their homes in the last decade. The influx of migrants, particularly during the 2015-2016 crisis, brought over a million people to Germany, primarily from Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Now, as they embrace their new identity as German citizens, they are eager to make their voices heard in the democratic process.

Rising Numbers of New Citizens: A Shift in Germany’s Electoral Landscape

The number of naturalizations in Germany has seen a significant rise since the last national election in 2021. Between 2021 and 2023, more than 500,000 people were granted citizenship, according to the Federal Statistical Office. While the exact figures for 2024 are still pending, experts predict that over 250,000 individuals were naturalized last year alone. This surge in naturalizations reflects Germany’s evolving demographics and its efforts to integrate migrants into society. As these new citizens prepare to vote, they bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the ballot box, potentially reshaping the country’s political landscape.

Mixed Emotions and High Stakes: New Citizens Share Their Thoughts on Voting

For many of these first-time voters, the election is a moment of empowerment, hope, and responsibility. While some express excitement about their newfound right to shape Germany’s future, others are concerned about the growing influence of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which has been critical of immigration. For Syrians, in particular, the election holds additional significance. Having fled a civil war sparked by a crackdown on democratic protests, they now have the opportunity to participate in a multi-party election in their new home. The upcoming vote is not just about politics; it’s a chance to affirm their place in German society and contribute to its future.

PersonalStories: Five New Citizens Share Their Voting Experiences

1. Logeen Faour Shahna: A Voice for Migrants
   Logeen Faour Shahna, a 24-year-old from Idlib, Syria, arrived in Germany in 2015. Now a mathematics student at Berlin’s Technical University, she views her German passport as a symbol of security and a chance to make a difference. “Every vote counts,” she says, emphasizing her desire to amplify the voices of migrants and challenge stereotypes. A strong opponent of the AfD, she believes their ideology threatens Germany’s progress and hopes for a more inclusive future.

2. Syamend Al Othman: Hoping for Economic Growth
   Syamend Al Othman, a 31-year-old Syrian Kurd, came to Germany in 2014 and works in online marketing. He and his wife are proud to contribute to society through their work and taxes. Al Othman hopes the next government will focus on strengthening the economy, ensuring stability for families like his. Reflecting on his father, who never had the chance to vote in Syria, he sees voting as a privilege and a step toward building a democratic future.

3. Ketevan Asatiani-Herrmann: Defending Democracy
   Ketevan Asatiani-Herrmann, a 35-year-old from Georgia, has lived in Germany since 2011 and works as a social worker helping migrant teenagers integrate. She is deeply concerned about the rise of discrimination and extremism, especially after a recent violent attack in Magdeburg. For her, voting is an act of resistance against hate and a commitment to protecting democracy. She hopes the next government will promote unity and inclusion, ending the division between “them” and “us.”

4. Sedra Hanina: Advocating for Equality and Security
   Sedra Hanina, a 23-year-old from Damascus, arrived in Germany as a teenager in 2016. Now a chemistry student and mother, she hopes the next government will prioritize social justice and security, particularly for women who wear the hijab. Hanina, who often feels mistreated for her choice to wear the hijab, sees voting as a chance to push for equality and ensure that everyone is treated the same, regardless of their background or appearance.

5. Hassan Salameh: A Reward for Integration
   Hassan Salameh, a 40-year-old pharmacist from Aleppo, feels a deep sense of accomplishment as he prepares to vote for the first time. After years of studying German, recognizing his professional qualifications, and navigating the citizenship process, he views his vote as a reward for his hard work. For Salameh, voting is not just a right but a responsibility—to ensure a secure and prosperous future for his family and for Germany.

The Far-Right Challenge: A Growing Concern for New Citizens

The rise of the AfD has sparked anxiety among many new citizens, who fear the party’s anti-immigrant rhetoric and policies could undermine Germany’s multicultural fabric. Logeen Faour Shahna and others worry about the normalization of far-right ideologies, drawing parallels to the 1930s. However, they remain optimistic, believing that the majority of Germans, whether born in the country or not, will reject extremism and choose a path of inclusivity and progress.

A Step Toward a More Inclusive Future

As Germany heads to the polls, the stories of these new citizens remind us of the power of democracy and the resilience of the human spirit. For many, voting is more than just a civic duty—it’s a chance to reclaim their sense of belonging, challenge discrimination, and contribute to a society that values diversity. As they cast their ballots, they aren’t just shaping Germany’s future; they are also rewriting their own narratives, proving that integration is a two-way process that enriches both individuals and the nation. This election is a testament to the enduring hope that democracy can provide—a hope that Germany will continue to be a beacon of freedom, equality, and opportunity for all.