Trend: Fewer Thuringians are employed - Thuringia's Shrinking Workforce Raises Industrial Concerns
Thuringia's labor force is shrinking rapidly, with the number of working-age residents declining more sharply than in most other German states. This trend, coupled with Germany's economic downturn, is raising concerns about the region's future industrial appeal.
Last year alone, Thuringia's workforce shrank by 8,100, reaching 1.015 million. This decline of 0.8 percent was outpaced only by Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and Saarland. The ifo Institute, led by Prof. Clemens Fuest, attributes this trend to demographic shifts and the retirement of baby-boom generation workers.
The industrial and construction sectors bore the brunt of this decline, with 4,000 jobs lost, a 1.4 percent drop. Service industries also saw a reduction of 3,400 workers, or 0.5 percent, with business-related services most affected. Meanwhile, employment in healthcare and social services grew by 1,600. Business associations and chambers of commerce warn that this declining labor force could deter future industrial investment in the region.
Thuringia's workforce continues to shrink, with the employed population dropping by 0.8 percent last year. While employment in healthcare and social services grew, industries and services saw significant job losses. As Germany's economic slump casts a shadow over Thuringia's labor market, concerns about the region's industrial appeal grow. The ifo Institute's reports highlight the need for strategies to address this demographic challenge and attract investment.
