Mercedes-Benz Commences Internship Program For Refugees in Germany

The internship aims to not only equip the participants with basic skills for industrial production, but also teach them how machines are equipped or how components and sorted and provided, among other things. Furthermore, the participants also receive German language lessons and help with writing job application letters.

Michael Brecht, Chairman of the General Works Council at Daimler AG, said, "The best way for people to integrate is at the workplace. Doing things together creates understanding for one another. That is why we are delighted that many colleagues have expressed a willingness to mentor the 'bridge interns'. Discrimination and racism have no place at Daimler. We support the program, which we see as humanitarian aid within our practical possibilities. However, it is also clear: The 'bridge interns' are not in competition with temporary agency workers or our core workforce. This program does not put anybody at a disadvantage."

While the German Federal Employment Agency is financing the first 6 weeks of the internship, Daimler will pay compensation for the daily work time of three-and-a-half hours in accordance with minimum wage law for the remaining 8 weeks. Daimler is also financing the German courses for the full duration of the bridge internships.

Daimler will extend this program to other locations in the coming weeks and months.