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Berlin’s Daycare System Exposed for Racist Biases Against Migrant Children

A shocking report uncovers how daycare directors in Berlin quietly limit spots for migrant kids—all while claiming to seek a ‘good mix.’ Why does background still decide opportunity?

In this image I can see the kid is holding the baby and they are wearing different color dresses....
In this image I can see the kid is holding the baby and they are wearing different color dresses. Background is blurred.

Berlin’s Daycare System Exposed for Racist Biases Against Migrant Children

A new study has exposed deep-seated inequalities in Berlin’s daycare system. Published by the German Center for Integration and Migration Research (DeZIM), the report titled 'And You’re Out!' reveals how racist biases shape access to early childhood education. The findings highlight how directors’ decisions often disadvantage children with migration backgrounds—even as some centres actively promote diversity.

The study shows that daycare directors in Berlin hold significant power over who gets a place. Many use their 'allocation authority' to create what they call a 'good mix' of children. This often means limiting spots for those with migration backgrounds, sometimes capping their numbers at 40% to avoid extra staffing requirements.

The report underscores a stark gap between policy and practice in Berlin’s daycare system. While some centres embrace inclusion, many still operate on assumptions that disadvantage children with migration backgrounds. The authors call for systemic reforms to ensure fair access and representation in early education.

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