Paying is an everyday process. You can usually choose freely: cash, card or smartphone. This will no longer apply to refugees in the future. The federal and state governments have decided to introduce their own payment cards for them. Refugees should, if possible, no longer have any free money at their disposal.
The political debate has recently focused on limiting the transfer of money to the countries of origin. This is seen as a (mis)incentive to flee to Germany. However, the payment card was originally intended to make it easier for refugees to access their financial resources and to simplify administration for the authorities.
This brings with it hurdles in everyday life. Not just for refugees. Business people and others are also affected because they now need readers for the cards. Many, especially smaller and local providers, will probably not take on this additional effort. They will lose refugees as customers. Conversely, their services and goods will no longer be available to refugees. This can have a major impact on everyday life.
Payment cards can only be used by those who have basic technological and linguistic knowledge. Not all refugees have them. Some come from regions with little technology. As with all IT systems, there is a risk of errors or even complete failure. Refugees then no longer have access. In urgent cases, this can have serious consequences. Payment cards invade privacy. Refugees have to identify themselves with every purchase. What they buy is traceable. This also affects the basic rights regulated in data protection.
The new regulation only applies to refugees who are in the asylum process. They feel restricted and degraded by the payment card. Others, people with recognized refugee status and Ukrainian citizens, can still have free financial resources at their disposal.
assessment
Experts in the CFEE doubt the practical use of the payment card. The main aim was probably to send a political signal to reduce the incentives to flee. In Egelsbach, the aim is now to make using the payment card as easy as possible. This includes the goodwill of as many business people as possible to accept it as a means of payment. The state authorities must ensure data protection. The CFEE will support those affected by providing good training and will continue to provide emotional support.