Germany's massive infrastructure plans demand more foreign workers

"Germany has plans to spend €500 billion to modernise its crumbling infrastructure over the next decade. A new study highlights the challenges ahead - including a potentially catastrophic shortage of skilled labour. Passed by the Bundestag and pending Bundesrat approval, Germany's special fund for infrastructure ( Sondervermögens) is designed to rapidly upgrade Germany's roads, railways, energy supply, hospitals, schools and more."

"But according to new in-depth analysis by the Cologne Institute for Economic Research (IW), a number of "stumbling blocks" threaten to undermine the effective use of these massive resources. Potentially the most devastating stumbling block is a lack of skilled labour in the country. The report notes that more needs to be done to reduce "the exodus of already integrated foreigners" from Germany."

Germany will spend €500 billion over 12 years to modernize roads, railways, energy supply, hospitals, schools and digital infrastructure. The fund is debt-financed and requires Bundesrat approval after Bundestag passage. €100 billion is earmarked for climate protection and €100 billion will support states and municipalities. The Cologne Institute for Economic Research identifies multiple 'stumbling blocks' that could undermine effective resource use. The most serious obstacle is a profound shortage of skilled labour. The institute calls for coordinated policy action to attract and retain skilled workers and to reduce the exodus of already integrated foreigners to ensure projects are delivered productively.

Read at The Local Germany