The project aims to deepen understanding of how access to information about legal migration options shapes migration decisions in countries of origin and transit. Iraq is one of the case study countries included in the project.
Advisory centres supporting informed migration decisions
The GMACs operate within the German programme Centres for Migration and Development (ZME), commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implemented by the German development agency Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). In Iraq, two advisory centres are located in Baghdad and Erbil. As Christiane Conrad, Head of the Iraq component of the ZME programme, explains, “[w]e offer consultations both to Iraqi citizens who have returned from abroad and to those interested in regular migration pathways.”
According to Redar Abdlsalam, Migration and Reintegration Advisor at the GMAC in Erbil, advisors provide one-to-one and group consultations covering topics such as visa categories and their requirements, job-search strategies, language acquisition, intercultural preparation, and practical aspects of life in Germany.
“We provide clear and reliable information on regular migration pathways for work and study in Germany,” Abdlsalam explains, adding that advisors also discuss what may be realistic in light of individual circumstances. The centres may also refer individuals to additional support initiatives, including virtual mentoring programmes.
Our key message is simple: migrating without reliable information is dangerous.
Addressing misconceptions about migration
Abdlsalam notes that many young people in Iraq hold certain expectations about migration, as “[s]ome believe that migrating abroad is easy and that finding a good job and a stable life will happen quickly.” Consultations therefore include discussions about requirements, timelines, and practical considerations related to legal migration pathways.
Communication specialist Tawar Qaderi highlights the importance of accurate information in reducing risks, stating that “[o]ur key message is simple: migrating without reliable information is dangerous.” By offering free consultations, GMACs aim to counter misinformation and encourage safer migration choices.
Legal pathways and practical guidance
Among the most commonly discussed migration pathways are skilled labour migration for individuals with recognised qualifications, vocational training opportunities, study programmes, and Germany’s Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte), which allows individuals to search for employment in the country. Each pathway involves specific eligibility requirements and timelines, which advisors help clients navigate.
While the centres provide guidance on available options, staff stress that individuals remain responsible for their own decisions. The role of GMAC advisors is to ensure that prospective migrants understand both opportunities and risks before pursuing migration.
The Delmi-project is funded by the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF).