According to the Federal Statistical Office, only 10% of Germany’s population falls within the 15-24 age group. This record low has remained consistent since 2021, with the only change being the stabilization of the demographic trend. These figures are part of an agency factsheet released ahead of International Youth Day on August 12. The FSO explained that the low rate is due to demographic decline, which has only been mitigated by the increased immigration of young people.
The FSO also noted that the cohort of people without an immigration background is only 8.6%, while those born to immigrant parents constitute the highest share of 20.7%. This data is crucial in understanding the current state of Germany’s youth population and the role of immigration in shaping demographic trends. The agency emphasized that the immigration of young people following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 played a critical role in preventing a further drop.
Demographically, the decline has been more pronounced in Eastern Germany, with states such as Brandenburg, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, and Saxony-Anhalt having the lowest share of young people at just under 9%. In contrast, western regions like Bremen, Hamburg, and Baden-Wurttemberg have the highest rates, though they remain below 11% of the total population.
The demographic challenges have significant implications for Germany’s economy, with the head of the Federal Employment Agency, Andrea Nahles, warning of continued strain. The skilled labor shortage remains a significant issue, especially in the industrial sector. According to a study by consultancy EY, Germany’s industrial sector has shed more than 100,000 jobs over the past year and is expected to lose 70,000 more by the end of 2025. The auto sector has been the hardest hit, with around 45,400 net job losses.