Integration succeeds in Pirmasens: Prizes awarded for special projects!

Integration succeeds in Pirmasens: Prizes awarded for special projects!

The city of Pirmasens, an association from Mainz and a podcast initiative from the Vulkaneifel have impressively proven that integration is possible in Germany. On October 27, 2025, they were awarded the Integration Prize of the State of Rhineland-Palatinate. Each of the prize winners can look forward to 5,000 euros, which will benefit their great work.

Particular attention was paid to the city of Pirmasens' four-stage concept, which supports asylum seekers from the outset and integrates them into society. Emphasis is placed not only on language acquisition, but also on placement in the professional world. Integration Minister Katharina Binz particularly praised the projects, which appeal to both people with and without a migration history and are a real role model for other municipalities.

The Arc en Ciel Sports and Cultural Association Mainz approaches integration with a creative approach. Here, young people, regardless of their cultural or family background, actively shape their Mainz-Lerchenberg district. The association not only creates space for joint activities, but also promotes togetherness that transcends cultural boundaries.

But that's not all. The “Motivation and Integration” podcast initiative from the Vulkaneifel also shows how important exchange is. In their podcast, immigrants report on their integration experiences and life in Germany. This form of communication offers a valuable change of perspective and encourages volunteer work, which promotes mutual understanding.

Recognition of outstanding projects

A total of 49 applications were received for the integration prize, and in addition to the prize winners, six best practice examples were also honored. This prize, which is awarded every five years, is not only a recognition of the achievements of the prize winners, but also a signal of the importance of integration projects in our society.

However, the discourse about integration remains complex. According to the ongoing project "Integration Reports 2024 and 2026", led by Dr. Niklas Harder and Dr. Maria Metzing, the role of migration experience and its impact on the labor market, education and health is analyzed. The reports are produced regularly to measure developments in the area of ​​integration and to shed light on the general population's perception of immigrants. These findings are enormously valuable in professional discussions about integration and equal opportunities.

At a time when integration is a central issue in many cities, the projects being implemented in Pirmasens, Mainz and the Vulkaneifel show how important it is to build bridges and seek dialogue. It is clear that collaboration between different communities and initiatives not only contributes to social acceptance, but also creates an important basis for harmonious coexistence.

Further information about the award-winning projects can be found in the detailed reports on the website World and des Dezim Institute.