The story of Humaira Wasim, a German woman of Pakistani origin, illustrates the struggles many face in Germany’s housing market. Despite being a civil servant with a secure income, her request to view an apartment was rejected – seemingly due to her foreign-sounding name.
When she resubmitted the same application under the name “Julia Schneider,” she immediately received an appointment. Repeated tests confirmed the pattern: German names were accepted, foreign names rejected.
The case sheds light on Germany’s severe housing shortage, where rising rents and limited apartments combine with discrimination, leaving refugees, students, families, and low-income earners frustrated.
Sources – Agencies
