City of Jena welcomes new citizens

The city of Jena has once again ceremoniously welcomed new citizens. 261 people who were naturalized in the first half of 2025 were invited to the event in the Rathausdiele. After "the formal, often lengthy and difficult process of naturalization", Lord Mayor Dr. Thomas Nitzsche gave them a warm welcome. This is already the city's second ceremony this year.

Those naturalized in recent months come from 39 different nations on five continents (Europe, Africa, Asia, North & South America), five people were previously stateless. 113 of them are women and 148 are men. Syria, Afghanistan and Iraq are the most represented countries of origin.

"Germany needs an influx of people because the basis for the country's economic strength - despite digitalization and automation - will always be people,"

emphasized Nitzsche. This is particularly clear in Jena, an economically strong city.

"By the end of the decade, around a third of the workforce will retire, but only a third of them can be replaced by young people who come from here,"

said the Lord Mayor. The shortage of skilled workers can be felt everywhere. However, he also knew that many people came to Germany because they were seeking protection and asylum. Those who have now been naturalized have integrated very well, which usually happens quietly and does not dominate the media.

The number of naturalizations has risen sharply in recent years. While around 30 people were naturalized in Jena every year until 2010, eight to ten years ago it was already around 50. Since 2018, the number has been over 70. In 2023, more than 200 people were naturalized, last year a total of 333. This year, the total is expected to be more than 500.

Flight, work or perhaps a relationship with a loved one - every naturalization is associated with very personal motivations, developments, fates and profound changes for each individual, said Nitzsche. In addition to legal residence of at least five years in most cases, the requirements for obtaining German citizenship are sufficient knowledge of German, a successfully passed naturalization test on the German legal and social order, a commitment to the free and democratic basic order and securing a livelihood without social welfare or unemployment benefits.

"I would like to express my great appreciation for your effort, patience and perseverance, but also for your courage,"

said Nitzsche.

"May you find a home here - if you haven't already."

Mario Ottaiano, who is originally from Italy, gave a short speech about his experiences. The cultural program was provided by the Jena Music and Art School.