Non-Native Workers or Expatriate Labor Force - Strangers Play a Crucial Role in East Germany's Economic Sector
In a recent study, foreign laborers are seen as a vital foundation for the economy in East Germany. The IW, a pro-business institution, reports that in 2023, over 403,000 non-German citizens were employed in the five eastern federal states, which is a 173,000 person increase from five years prior. These individuals contributed a substantial 24.6 billion euros to the region's economy, accounting for 5.8% of its GDP. The study concludes that 'foreign workers are essential for the east' as the number of local German workers decreased by 116,000 between 2018 and 2023.
The IW anticipates state elections in three eastern federal states, pointing out that the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has been consistently attacking migrants and enjoying favorable poll results, while many migrants express concerns. However, it's the foreign workers who are strengthening the eastern economy. Without immigration, the region would have seen a significant economic decline, but instead, it has thrived.
Saxony is the largest benefactor, with foreign workers contributing around 7.9 billion euros to its economy. Brandenburg follows with 6.8 billion euros, despite having a smaller overall economy, and Thuringia remains profitable with 3.9 billion euros.
As per the IW, there's been a significant influx of laborers from Poland, the Czech Republic, Romania, and Ukraine in the past five years. They mostly work in the construction industry but also contribute to transportation and temporary employment agencies in Germany. "Foreign workers are bolstering the eastern economy," says Wido Geis-Thoene, the study's author. It's crucial, he emphasizes, for the region to maintain an open-minded approach, ensuring the east continues to prosper economically.
The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) frequently criticizes migrants, yet the economic contribution of these individuals cannot be overlooked. Without the influx of migrants from Poland, the Czech Republic, Romania, and Ukraine, contributing primarily to the construction industry, regions like Saxony, Brandenburg, and Thuringia would have experienced an economic downturn.
