Kellner: Rejection of immigration can be a disadvantage
State Secretary Michael Kellner sees the recruitment of skilled workers for Lusatia as one of the greatest challenges for structural development. "We can see that demographic change is having an even greater impact in eastern Germany, in Lusatia, than in western Germany," said the Green politician in Cottbus on Wednesday. Every potential must be used, which is why the federal government will promote the qualification of workers and also facilitate the immigration of skilled workers. "One of the biggest risks in eastern Germany is that the rejection of immigration becomes a disadvantage for the location". This worries him, says Kellner. However, he also sees that East German municipalities and companies have clearly spoken out in favor of a welcoming culture.
The spokesperson for the Lusatia Round Table for Brandenburg's municipalities sees the need for skilled workers in a positive light. "Then we'd better deal with the fact that we need workers," said Christine Herntier, who is also mayor of the town of Spremberg. In the 1990s, it was still about migration from the region. Now international companies are also settling here as a result of the structural change. What is needed now is investment in education - for skilled workers and a welcoming culture.
According to a study published in the summer by the Leibnitz Institute for Economic Research Halle (IWH) on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Economics, the shortage of skilled workers will hamper economic growth in the Brandenburg part of Lusatia in the coming years. "While production potential is expanding in all other regions, it is largely stagnating in this region," forecast the researchers in an interim report on the evaluation of the Coal Regions Investment Act (InvKG) and the STARK federal program. The researchers therefore recommend strengthening projects that support research, development and education. The forecast covers the period from 2020 to 2040.
Kellner further emphasized that the refusal of accepting refugees could also negatively impact the social affairs of Municipalities in Lusatia, considering the region's reliance on immigration for skilled labor. This concern arises due to the potential disadvantages that rejected immigration could bring to the local economy.
Given the significant role of international companies in Lusatia, some municipalities have recognized the need to foster a positive social environment towards refugees. This includes ensuring resources for their integration, which is vital for maintaining a welcoming culture and attracting a diverse workforce.
Source: www.dpa.com
