SDG 10 Reduced Inequalities: Comparative Analysis of Refugee Policies in Germany and Greece

Introduction: The refugee crisis continues to evolve, presenting unique challenges for both frontline states and destination countries. The interplay between international laws, regional agreements, and national policies requires constant evaluation to ensure the fair treatment of refugees while addressing the socio-economic pressures on host nations. By comparing Germany and Greece, this article delves deeper into how historical contexts influence current policies, highlighting areas where innovation and reform are needed. Objective: This article aims to evaluate and compare the refugee policies of Germany and Greece, focusing on their historical contexts, legal frameworks, socio-economic integration strategies, and implementation mechanisms. The aim is to identify actionable recommendations for Greece based on Germany’s experiences and to explore broader implications for EU migration policies in line with SDG 10 and SDG 16. Theoretical Framework: This article presents the fundamental concepts and theoretical frameworks underpinning the research, with a particular focus on refugee policies. These concepts provide a robust foundation for understanding the context and background of the research. Method: This research employs a qualitative comparative analysis of secondary data, including legal documents, policy reports, and integration outcomes, to explore the systemic and socio-economic differences between Germany and Greece. Key performance indicators aligned with SDGs provide the analytical framework for evaluating policy effectiveness. Results and Discussion: Germany’s centralized and structured refugee policies, supported by robust legal frameworks and integration initiatives, demonstrate the value of proactive planning and institutional capacity. Greece, by contrast, faces challenges due to fragmented systems, financial crises, and dependence on external support. Recommendations for Greece include centralized policy coordination, vocational training, streamlined asylum processing, and community-based housing. The analysis underscores the necessity of EU solidarity and shared responsibility in managing migration sustainably. Research Implications: This research provides a comparative analysis of the refugee policies in Germany and Greece, exploring their historical contexts, legal frameworks, implementation mechanisms, socio-economic integration efforts, and cultural adaptation strategies. By examining these dimensions, the research aims to identify actionable lessons for Greece, informed by Germany’s successes, while reflecting on broader implications for the European Union (EU). It also highlights the importance of collective responsibility and solidarity in addressing migration challenges, emphasizing the need for sustainable and inclusive solutions. Originality/Value: This research provides a comprehensive comparative perspective on refugee policies in Germany and Greece, offering actionable insights for policy reform. It emphasizes the importance of aligning national refugee strategies with SDGs, particularly SDG 10 and SDG 16, to address systemic inequalities and promote sustainable integration.