Everything you need to know about how Arab associations support people facing everyday discrimination in Germany

Arab communities in Germany are confronted with many forms of everyday discrimination – in social life, on the labour market, in housing, and even in public institutions. In this context, Arab associations play a key role: they offer support, amplify voices and help protect people’s rights.

What kinds of discrimination do Arabs face in Germany?

• Discrimination at work:
  Job rejections or lack of promotion opportunities because of origin, name or accent.

• Racism in housing:
  Difficulties finding a flat due to name, language or appearance.

• Unequal treatment in institutions:
  For example in schools, job centres or public authorities.

• Verbal and physical attacks:
  Insults, threats or assaults in public spaces or on public transport.

The role of Arab associations in combating discrimination

1. Legal and social counselling

• Explaining people’s rights under the General Equal Treatment Act (Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz – AGG).

• Supporting and accompanying those affected when filing complaints, objections or criminal charges.

• Providing access to psychological counselling to help cope with the emotional impact of racism and exclusion.

2. Awareness-raising and training

• Information sessions about rights in the fields of work, housing, education and social services.

• Training people on how to respond to discrimination in a calm, safe and legally sound way.

3. Supporting social inclusion and integration

• Organising cultural and sports events to foster dialogue and contact with the local population.

• Offering language courses and job-preparation trainings to strengthen people’s chances on the labour market and in everyday life.

4. Engaging with authorities and politics

• Representing the concerns of the Arab community vis-à-vis local councils, schools and public institutions.

• Cooperating with the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency (Antidiskriminierungsstelle des Bundes) and similar bodies at state and municipal level.

Sources of support and funding

Government funding programmes

• Projects under the federal programme “Demokratie leben!” (“Live Democracy!”), which supports initiatives against racism and discrimination.

• Local and regional grants that fund community projects and integration initiatives.

Support from civil society organisations

• Partnerships with major welfare organisations such as Caritas or Diakonie.

• Cooperation with migration and integration advisory centres.

How to get in touch with Arab associations

• By visiting the websites or social media pages of well-known associations in your area, for example:

  • “Arab House” (جمعية الدار العربية) in Berlin,

  • “Arab Union” (الاتحاد العربي) in Munich,

  • Arab community forums and associations in Hamburg and other cities.

• By attending public events and workshops to learn more about the support and counselling they offer.

Tips if you experience discrimination

• Don’t stay silent:
  Reporting discrimination increases the chances of change and protects others from similar experiences.

• Document what happened:
  Keep evidence: messages, emails, photos, screenshots, and contact details of witnesses.

• Seek advice and support:
  Contact an Arab association, the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency, or a specialised counselling centre.
  In many associations, you can access free or low-cost legal and social advice.

Conclusion

Arab associations in Germany are an essential safety net for people who experience discrimination in their everyday lives. They provide counselling, empower individuals and help ensure that affected voices are heard. If you feel you have been treated unfairly because of who you are, don’t hesitate to ask for help – there are people and structures ready to stand with you and support you in claiming your rights.

Key German terms

• Antidiskriminierungsstelle des Bundes: Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency

• Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz (AGG): General Equal Treatment Act

• Demokratie leben!: “Live Democracy!” federal programme

• Beratungsstelle: counselling / advice centre

• Gemeinnütziger Verein: non-profit association

The editorial and writing team of the website strives to provide accurate information based on thorough research and multiple sources. Nevertheless, errors or incomplete details may occur. Please treat the information in this article as an initial reference and always consult competent authorities or legal professionals for binding and up-to-date advice.