Germany is facing criticism from welfare groups and migration organisations after reports emerged that the federal government plans to significantly cut funding for asylum counselling and related migrant integration services as part of broader budget adjustments. The moves, which are still under discussion within government budget processes and coalition talks, have alarmed advocates who warn they could leave asylum seekers with less support navigating legal procedures and settling into German society.

Concerns focus on proposals to eliminate or sharply reduce federal funds for nationwide, independent asylum procedure counselling and other support measures that welfare organisations say are vital for asylum seekers’ legal rights and social integration. Organisations including the Federal Association of the Central Associations of Independent Welfare Services (BAGFW) have publicly highlighted the issue, describing planned funding changes as a serious setback for asylum support systems. 

Budget proposals and counselling cuts

Reports from welfare organisations and advocacy groups indicate that the German federal budget planning process for 2026 and beyond could see major cuts to funding streams that support migrant counselling and integration. According to statements by BAGFW and related bodies, areas under threat include:

• Nationwide independent asylum procedure advice (Asylverfahrensberatung): Funding could be cut by about 50 % compared with previous years, hampering the ability of organisations to provide legal information and procedural guidance to asylum seekers.
• Migration counselling for adult immigrants (MBE): Budgets may be reduced by roughly 30 %, affecting local advisory services that help migrants integrate into German society.
• Psychosocial support services: The funding available for specialised centres providing mental health and trauma support to refugees and asylum seekers could be cut dramatically from higher levels of support to much smaller budgets, potentially endangering continuity of care.

Members of Germany’s welfare sector warn that these changes would undermine a framework that has been built up over years to ensure that asylum seekers have access to legal advice, social integration support, and psychosocial care. They note that independent counselling services play a key role in helping asylum seekers understand their rights, prepare documentation, and navigate the complexities of asylum procedures.

Political and fiscal context

The proposed reductions are unfolding against a backdrop of shifting political priorities in Germany, including debate over migration policy and social spending. Asylum policy has been a topic of heightened focus amid wider discussions on migration and integration, particularly since the influx of refugees in recent years and ahead of elections that have seen migration feature prominently in political debates. There is also broader pressure on federal budgets as government leaders navigate competing demands for spending. 

While detailed government documents on the specific counselling cuts are not publicly available, welfare organisations contend that federal budget drafts and coalition planning discussions have signalled a withdrawal of previous funding commitments. These decisions appear to reflect changing priorities within the federal budget allocation, even as local authorities and civil society groups argue that cutting these services will create gaps in legal and social support for asylum seekers.

Impact on asylum seekers and integration

The potential cuts to asylum counselling and migration support services raise concerns about real‑world consequences for people seeking protection in Germany. Asylum procedure counselling helps individuals understand complex legal processes, prepare applications, and access rights under German and EU law. Reductions in funding could mean fewer advisers per region, longer waiting times for appointments, and reduced capacity to support those who lack legal representation.

Similarly, general migration counselling, including language support, orientation services, and help with employment and housing, is considered fundamental to successful integration. Cuts to these programmes risk leaving asylum seekers with limited access to essential information and services at a time when effective integration remains a priority for policymakers and communities alike.

Reactions from advocacy groups

Leading welfare organisations have voiced alarm at the funding plans. In their statements, groups such as BAGFW have described the potential loss of funds for asylum counselling and psychosocial services as a “serious threat” to essential support structures. They argue that reducing these services will leave asylum seekers more vulnerable and less equipped to integrate socially and economically. 

These organisations are calling on the federal government to reconsider the proposed cuts and maintain investment in counselling, legal assistance and integration services, emphasising that such support is crucial not only for asylum seekers but for local communities and labour markets that depend on effective integration.

What happens next

At this stage, the cuts remain part of budget planning discussions, and specific legislation or formal budget decisions have not been finalised and published by official government sources. Germany’s budgetary process involves negotiation between the federal government, coalition partners, and parliamentary committees before final approval.

As advocacy groups continue to highlight the issue, both political leaders and civil society organisations are likely to engage in further debate over the future of asylum counselling and migrant support services. For asylum seekers and service providers, the coming months could be decisive in determining whether these essential supports are preserved or reduced under new budget frameworks

Spain has just lived through its wettest winter in nearly half a century, with a relentless chain of storms turning quiet villages into flood zones and forcing emergency evacuations across parts of the country. Between late December and mid-February, eleven consecutive storms swept across the Iberian Peninsula, bringing record rainfall, flash floods and landslides. According to Spain’s national weather agency AEMET, the rainfall recorded during this period is the highest seen in 47 years, marking a dramatic shift for a country far more used to worrying about drought than overflowing rivers.

For many residents and expats living in southern Spain, the scenes have been striking. Regions famous for sunshine and dry landscapes suddenly found themselves dealing with swollen rivers, damaged roads and communities cut off from the outside world.

A chain of storms that changed the Spanish winter

The turning point came when Storm Leonardo hit the south of the peninsula, particularly Andalusia, bringing intense rain and powerful winds.

In some areas, up to 120 millimetres of rain fell in just one day, while wind gusts reached 150 kilometres per hour. What began as heavy rain quickly turned into dangerous flooding in several provinces.

In Granada province, small communities experienced the most dramatic impact. In the village of Bayacas, located on the slopes of the Sierra Nevada, the Chico River suddenly burst its banks, flooding streets and damaging key infrastructure.

Water supply pipes ruptured under the pressure and several access roads disappeared beneath floodwater before emergency services could reach the area. Residents reported bridges collapsing and cars being swept away by the force of the water.

Near the Guadalfeo river, floodwaters rose so quickly that some homes were submerged within minutes.

Authorities confirmed that two people lost their lives during the storm, while several towns had to organise evacuations as landslides threatened nearby properties.

For locals and foreign residents alike, the speed of the flooding was the most alarming part. Many said the situation changed within hours, transforming quiet winter landscapes into scenes that looked more like a disaster film.

A country built for drought, not floods

Spain is no stranger to extreme weather, but the country’s infrastructure has traditionally been designed with water shortages in mind rather than sudden excess rainfall.

In regions such as Andalusia, the climate typically brings more than 300 days of sunshine a year, and much of the water management system focuses on storing rain during occasional storms to survive long, dry summers.

This winter’s storms, however, exposed the limits of that approach.

Several towns reported water networks breaking under pressure, while landslides blocked roads and delayed rescue operations. In some remote areas, residents were temporarily cut off from outside help.

In the first hours of the flooding, locals often had to act quickly themselves. Residents built temporary barriers using sandbags and stones, while farmers tried to redirect the flow of water away from fields and homes.

The damage has not been limited to buildings and roads.

Once soil becomes saturated after repeated rainfall, it loses its ability to absorb water. This increases the risk of landslides and erosion, especially in mountainous regions. Agricultural land has also been affected, with some fields buried under layers of mud and debris.

Scientists warn extreme weather may become more common

For climate scientists, this winter may be more than just an unusual season.

According to AEMET, Spain has now recorded eight consecutive winters that were warmer than average, something that has never happened before in national records.

Warmer air can hold more moisture, which means that when storms do develop, they can release much heavier rainfall over shorter periods of time.

Meteorologist Rubén del Campo, spokesperson for AEMET, explained that storms like Leonardo are becoming more intense partly because warmer ocean temperatures increase evaporation, loading the atmosphere with moisture.

When that moisture is released during a storm, rainfall can quickly reach extreme levels.

The trend is not limited to Spain. In neighbouring Portugal, meteorological authorities reported the wettest February in 47 years, suggesting that the pattern is affecting the entire Iberian Peninsula.

Scientists say the region may increasingly face more extreme swings in weather, with long dry periods followed by sudden intense storms.

What it means for expats living in Spain

For the large expat communities across Spain, particularly in Andalusia, the Costa del Sol and parts of southern Spain, this winter has been a reminder that the country’s climate is becoming less predictable.

Many foreign residents choose Spain for its mild winters and sunshine, but recent months have shown how quickly conditions can change.

Local authorities are now reviewing emergency response systems and infrastructure in flood-prone areas, while meteorologists warn that similar weather patterns could appear again in the future.

The silver lining is that reservoir levels have improved significantly, easing concerns about drought ahead of summer. However, experts say the challenge will now be managing water more effectively when extreme weather hits.

Spain may still be known for its sunshine, beaches and warm climate, but this winter has shown a different side of the country’s weather.

And if scientists are right, the combination of droughts and sudden violent storms could become part of Spain’s new climate reality in the years ahead.

Spanish revival trio Diógenes Jug Band heads to the intimate Clarence Jazz Club in Torremolinos for an evening of joyful, improvised music straight from the early 20th century. Fans of blues, ragtime, swing, and jazz can expect a spirited performance on Saturday March 21, starting at 10pm.

Reviving the classic jug and washboard band spirit

Diógenes Jug Band channels the roots of American popular music from the 1910s to the 1940s, born in southern US cities like Louisville, Memphis, and Nashville. Musicians combine influences from Afro-American traditions, creating an energetic sound full of improvisation and cheer. Their hallmark lies in homemade instruments crafted from everyday objects, such as jugs for bass-like tones, washboards for percussion, cigar box guitars, and more recycled treasures.

This DIY approach mirrors the original jug bands that entertained at rural fairs, urban parties, and clubs, making music accessible and fun across communities.

Meet the trio

Enrique Real handles the washtub bass and vocals, drawing from his background in rockabilly, rock and roll, and blues outfits. Ana Laffarga delivers captivating lead vocals together with the canjolele, whistles, kazoo, and percussion; her theatre experience and musical education add the style. José Manuel Pérez strums the wine box guitar, bringing expertise from pop-rock and funky tribute bands.

Together, they create a visual spectacle echoing the 1920s and 1930s eras, transporting audiences back in time with authentic costumes and props.

Intimate venue and ticket details

Clarence Jazz Club, easy to find in Calle Danza Invisible 8 in Torremolinos, offers the classic cosy, atmospheric setting perfect for jazz and roots music. Famed for hosting over 200 concerts yearly, the club provides an ideal backdrop for this unique gig. Web: www.clarencejazzclub.com.

Tickets cost between €10 and €15. Early booking online comes recommended for the best seats in this popular spot.

Experience a lively escape to vintage America right on the Costa del Sol – grab tickets now for an unforgettable night of homemade melodies and infectious rhythms.