Housing, Integration, and Social Security in Mönchengladbach – Focus April 2026

Housing Allocation and Social Justice – A New Scoring System in the Works

In April 2026, the Committee for Equal Opportunities and Integration discussed a proposal from the AfD parliamentary group, which outlines a new approach to the allocation of publicly subsidized housing. The proposal introduces a socially balanced and location-based scoring system that takes into account factors such as the duration of the main residence in Mönchengladbach, employment ties within the city, family size, and voluntary work.

The reasoning behind this step is clear: The housing market is tense, the demand for affordable housing is growing, and there is a growing perception of unfairness in the allocation process. The city plans to further develop the concept in the coming weeks, without incurring additional costs.

Integration of Older People with a Migration Background: The Project „Pflegelots:innen für Vielfalt“

Another central topic was the integration of older people with a migration background into the healthcare and nursing system. The project „Pflegelots:innen für Vielfalt“ aims to support this target group by establishing a network of volunteer guides. These guides will help identify points of contact with existing services and ensure better care.

The cooperation with more than ten partners, including AWO, the German Red Cross, and the Senior Council, is significant. The project is scheduled to start at the beginning of July 2026. By targeting people from Turkey, Greece, Italy, Morocco, Ukraine, and Romania, Mönchengladbach is sending a clear signal for social inclusion in old age.

Integration through Qualification – The Project KLiQG⁺

As part of the IQ program (Integration through Qualification), Mönchengladbach is implementing the project KLiQG⁺, which is specifically designed for newly arrived professionals in the healthcare and social sectors. The goal is to promote the recognition of foreign qualifications, remove language barriers, and provide career guidance.

The project is funded from 2026 to 2028 by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs and the European Social Fund (ESF). It is aimed at people residing in North Rhine-Westphalia with at least a B1 language level. Women are particularly supported through funding for self-employment initiatives.

Social Care and Medical Assistance for Refugees

The city of Mönchengladbach continues to rely on cooperative partnerships with the non-profit welfare sector to better integrate refugees. For example, a service agreement with the Refugee Council Mönchengladbach provides for medical assistance carried out by a qualified nurse in a 70% position.

The care service already supported 1,135 people by 2024. The agreements run until the end of 2026 and are part of a broader effort to integrate refugees into the healthcare system and improve access to medical care.

Political Positions: Rejection of a Deportation Detention Center

In April 2026, the Mönchengladbach City Council passed a resolution against the establishment of a deportation detention center in the city. The proposal was submitted by Bündnis 90/Die Grünen and was unanimously supported. The resolution is part of a nationwide campaign under the motto „Prevent Deportation Detention Centers – in Mönchengladbach and Everywhere.“

Outlook: Further Initiatives in Inclusion and Equality

In addition to these topics, equality and inclusion were also in focus. For example, the committee discussed an amendment to the resolution „Solidarity with the Queer Center – Zero Tolerance for Violence.“ The proposal will soon be adopted by the City Council and sends a clear message against violence and in favor of financial support for the queer community.

In addition, the city plans to allocate 45,000 euros annually by 2028 to non-profit welfare organizations for social work. This financial support marks a milestone in the city's social work.

Conclusion: Mönchengladbach is Committed to Inclusion, Integration, and Social Security

April 2026 was marked by concrete measures and initiatives aimed at strengthening social security, justice, and integration in Mönchengladbach. Whether in the area of housing allocation, the care of refugees, or the support of older migrants – the city shows commitment and capacity for action. At the same time, it sends a clear political statement against deportation detention centers and in favor of the equality of all people. These developments suggest that Mönchengladbach will continue to place a strong focus on social justice and inclusion in the coming years.