Advocates Call for Improved Rights for Undocumented Migrants at Berlin Conference
Berlin, Germany – The 19th annual Tagung Illegalität (Conference on Illegality) concluded today, March 12, 2026, in Berlin, bringing together representatives from the Catholic Church, non-governmental organizations, academia, government, and civil society to address the challenges faced by individuals without legal residency status in Germany. The conference centered on identifying concrete steps to improve the living and working conditions of this vulnerable population, a topic of increasing urgency across Europe. Discussions focused on access to education, healthcare, and the prevention of exploitation, highlighting the fundamental human dignity of all migrants regardless of their legal status. The event underscored the complex interplay between migration policy, social inclusion, and the protection of basic human rights.
A central theme throughout the conference was the assertion that the right to a dignified life should not be contingent upon legal status. As emphasized by Bishop Ansgar Puff of Cologne, chairman of the Catholic Forum Leben in der Illegalität (Life in Illegality), “Regardless of their residency status, every migrant is first and foremost a human being.” He argued that inherent, inalienable rights should not be denied based on immigration status, particularly concerning access to essential services like education and healthcare. This sentiment resonated with participants who shared concerns about the systemic barriers faced by undocumented individuals in accessing these fundamental rights. The conference too acknowledged the political and legal necessities of regulating migration, but stressed that these regulations must be implemented in a manner that respects human dignity.
Legal Developments and Pathways to Regularization
Professor Dr. Jürgen Bast of Justus Liebig University Gießen presented an overview of current legal developments concerning migrants without legal residency in Germany. His presentation highlighted the need for a nuanced approach to immigration law, drawing parallels with recent developments in Spain, where pathways to regularization for working migrants are being explored. According to the German Bishops’ Conference, Professor Bast suggested that Germany consider similar options to provide a legal framework for migrants who are already contributing to the German economy. This sparked debate among attendees regarding the feasibility and potential benefits of such a policy shift. The discussion also addressed the difficulties in collecting reliable data on the number of individuals living in legal limbo, a challenge that hinders effective policy-making and resource allocation.
The conference also served as a platform to discuss the implementation of Germany’s National Action Plan against Labour Exploitation and Forced Labour (2025). A panel discussion featuring representatives from the Confederation of German Employers’ Associations (Bundesvereinigung der Deutschen Arbeitgeberverbände), the trade union Ver.di, and the organization Arbeit und Leben Berlin-Brandenburg examined the plan’s potential impact on protecting vulnerable workers, including those without legal status. Bishop Puff expressed cautious optimism, stating that the plan represents “a first critical step in the right direction,” but emphasized the need for careful monitoring of its implementation and a commitment to ensuring it effectively protects the rights of exploited workers. He specifically noted the importance of ensuring the plan reaches those most vulnerable, including undocumented migrants.
EU-Funded Research Highlights Challenges and Potential Solutions
The Tagung Illegalität coincided with the conclusion of the EU-funded research project I-CLAIM, which investigated the living and working conditions of migrant households with irregular status across six European countries. The German contribution to the project was coordinated by Professor Dr. Bastian Vollmer of the Catholic University of Mainz. The Catholic Forum Leben in der Illegalität actively participated in the project as a civil society partner. Presentations during the conference included findings from I-CLAIM, as well as from the MIrreM (Measuring Irregular Migration) project led by Dr. Franck Düvell of the University of Osnabrück, and Dignity Firm, coordinated by Dr. Blanca Garcés Mascareñas of Barcelona, Spain. These projects collectively shed light on the complex factors contributing to irregular migration and the challenges faced by those living in precarious circumstances.
Researchers presented preliminary recommendations based on their findings, which were further discussed in dedicated workshops. These recommendations focused on improving access to social services, strengthening legal protections against exploitation, and developing more effective strategies for identifying and supporting vulnerable migrant populations. The I-CLAIM project, utilizing the concept of “irregularity assemblage,” aimed to understand how legal, social, and material circumstances contribute to the creation and perpetuation of irregular migration status. The project’s findings are intended to inform policy development and improve the lives of migrants across Europe.
Access to Healthcare for Undocumented Migrants
A key focus of the second day of the conference was access to healthcare for individuals without legal residency and those without health insurance. Dr. Maike Grube of Diakonie Deutschland discussed the potential impact of planned reforms to emergency healthcare provision on these groups. The discussion centered on ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their legal status, have access to essential medical care, particularly in emergency situations. Participants explored potential solutions to address the barriers faced by undocumented migrants in accessing healthcare, including language barriers, fear of deportation, and financial constraints.
The Catholic Forum Leben in der Illegalität: A History of Advocacy
The Catholic Forum Leben in der Illegalität, founded in 2004 on the initiative of the Migration Commission of the German Bishops’ Conference, plays a crucial role in advocating for the rights of undocumented migrants in Germany. The organization works to ensure that individuals without legal status can exercise their fundamental social rights without fear of deportation. The Forum is supported by the Migration Commission of the German Bishops’ Conference, the German Caritas Association, the Catholic Migration Association, the Malteser Relief Service, and the Jesuit Refugee Service. Its work is rooted in the belief that all individuals deserve dignity and respect, regardless of their legal status.
The conference underscored the ongoing need for dialogue and collaboration between church organizations, NGOs, government agencies, and academic institutions to address the complex challenges faced by undocumented migrants. The discussions highlighted the importance of adopting a human-centered approach to migration policy, prioritizing the protection of fundamental rights and the promotion of social inclusion.
Key Takeaways
- The conference reaffirmed the importance of recognizing the inherent dignity of all migrants, regardless of their legal status.
- Participants discussed potential pathways to regularization for working migrants in Germany, drawing inspiration from recent developments in Spain.
- EU-funded research projects, such as I-CLAIM, are providing valuable insights into the challenges faced by undocumented migrants and informing policy recommendations.
- Access to healthcare remains a critical issue for undocumented migrants, and reforms to emergency healthcare provision are under consideration.
The ongoing work of organizations like the Catholic Forum Leben in der Illegalität remains vital in advocating for the rights of vulnerable populations and promoting a more just and equitable society. Further updates on the implementation of the National Action Plan against Labour Exploitation and Forced Labour, as well as the progress of EU-funded research projects, are expected in the coming months. The next Tagung Illegalität is scheduled for March 2028, continuing the vital conversation on the rights and well-being of migrants in Germany. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and experiences on this important issue in the comments below.
Related reading