A recent study by the IW forecasts that by 2036 Germany will have a shortage of 4.3 million workers. This figure, 1.3 million higher than two years ago, is the result of an aging population and more restrictive immigration policy. The impact will be direct: fewer staff for basic services and a drag on the economy.
Automation and robotics: German industry's plan B 🤖
Faced with a labor shortage, German industry is accelerating its bet on automation. Collaborative robotics and artificial intelligence are expected to take over repetitive tasks in factories and logistics. However, these technologies do not cover all sectors. In healthcare or caregiving, human presence remains irreplaceable, forcing a search for solutions that combine machines with a higher local employment rate.
The magic solution: teleworking for retirees and eternal overtime ☕
The study suggests attracting immigrants and increasing working hours. In other words, those already working should step up, and more foreigners should come to do the same. Meanwhile, some politician will propose that retirees do night shifts from home. So, between robots, overtime, and teleworking grandparents, we might cover the deficit. Or we might all just go for coffee and let AI solve it.