How Could Germany Escape the Demographic Trap?

Arbeitspapier

Demographic change is perceived as a threat for wealth rather than a challenge in Germany. The debate on skilled labor shortage is a proof for this view. The paper surveys the most important German studies on skilled labor shortage. Meanwhile, a consensus on solutions has emerged in academia. Increasing the participation rates of elderly, women and facilitating qualified immigration as well as improving productivity are the mainstream recommendations. The paper provides descriptive statistical evidence that temporary agency work could contribute to solve the skilled labor shortage problem via these four channels. However, it is far from clear that productivity increases are the most important and most sustainable way out of the demographic trap. Against this background the government's demographic strategy is assessed. It turns out that the government has not a coherent strategy yet to solve the demographic issues ahead.

Object Details

• Language: Englisch

References and Relationships

• Bibliographic citation: Series: IZA Policy Paper ; No. 48

Classification and Topics

• Classification: Wirtschaft
• Subject: demography in Germany ; qualification ; training ; temporary agency work ; Alternde Bevölkerung ; Fachkräfte ; Leiharbeit ; Produktivität ; Bevölkerungspolitik ; Arbeitsmarktpolitik ; Lebensverlauf ; Deutschland

Contributors, Places and Time

• Event: Geistige Schöpfung
• (who): Kahlenberg, Christoph ; Spermann, Alexander
• Event: Veröffentlichung
• (who): Institute for the Study of Labor (IZA)
• (where): Bonn
• (when): 2012

Further information

• Handle: http://hdl.handle.net/10419/91740
• Last update: 10.03.2025, 11:42 AM CET