Story perspectives

Altena Struggles with Rising Migrant Costs and Discontent

9/5/2025

Summary

Story summary

Altena, Germany, welcomed over 100 migrants in 2015 to address population decline, but faces rising welfare costs and social issues.
Support for the anti-immigration AfD party rose to nearly 24% in February, driven by concerns over living costs and infrastructure.
Locals express dissatisfaction despite some refugees finding jobs, citing cultural changes and economic challenges.
The population has decreased to about 16,600, with economic improvements linked to spending cuts and tax increases.
Mayor Andreas Hollstein highlights integration challenges, noting that Germany cannot indefinitely absorb high migrant numbers.

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Story summary

Altena, Germany, welcomed over 100 migrants in 2015 to address population decline, but faces rising welfare costs and social issues.
Support for the anti-immigration AfD party rose to nearly 24% in February, driven by concerns over living costs and infrastructure.
Locals express dissatisfaction despite some refugees finding jobs, citing cultural changes and economic challenges.
The population has decreased to about 16,600, with economic improvements linked to spending cuts and tax increases.
Mayor Andreas Hollstein highlights integration challenges, noting that Germany cannot indefinitely absorb high migrant numbers.