In the northern German village of Boostedt, retired police officer and soccer trainer Hartwig Puhlmann (right) is trying to build bridges between locals and migrants in the village | Photo: DW
In the northern German village of Boostedt, retired police officer and soccer trainer Hartwig Puhlmann (right) is trying to build bridges between locals and migrants in the village | Photo: DW

Ten years ago, many refugees arrived in Germany. The northern village of Boostedt shows how integration can succeed — and where it still falls short.

Building bridges between villagers and refugees — that's the mission Hartwig Puhlmann has set for himself. The retired police officer takes residents' concerns seriously, and over the past ten years he's worked hard to address local issues — from litter to safety. Creative solutions have eased tensions, but critical voices remain.

First published: November 25, 2025

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Source: dw.com