Germany will be dependent on immigration in the coming decades. This is the only way to meet the demand for workers and secure prosperity. This is the conclusion of a study by the Bertelsmann Foundation.
Without immigration, the number of workers in Germany will fall by 10 percent by 2040. It will fall from the current 46.4 million to 41.9 million and to 35.1 million by 2060, according to the study. Around 288,000 workers from all over the world would be needed each year to halt the decline.
Labor market facing a major challenge
Demographic change, i.e. an ageing society, poses major challenges for the German labor market, said migration expert Susanne Schultz from the Bertelsmann Stiftung. This also requires immigration. “Of course, the domestic workforce potential must be used as a priority. But this alone will not be enough to meet future demand until 2040,” according to Schultz’s analysis.
Welcoming culture towards migrants is crucial
In this context, the expert referred to the new Skilled Immigration Act. This offers more opportunities for international workers who are interested in Germany. However, these would not come without a positive welcoming culture in authorities, companies and municipalities as well as long-term prospects of staying, she continued.
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Railroad tracks in Tübingen. Photo: tuenews INTERNATIONAL / Mostafa Elyasian.
