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Is there a lack of inhabitation in the Harz region?

The scenic Harz region is a favored tourist destination, but not many are interested in residing there, according to the experts' observations.

Remains Unclear: Will Anybody Continue Residing in the Harz Region?
Remains Unclear: Will Anybody Continue Residing in the Harz Region?

Is there a lack of inhabitation in the Harz region?

In the picturesque landscapes of Lower Saxony, foreign workers have become an integral part of the region's tourism industry. From the North Sea coast to the Harz Mountains, the demand for seasonal workers during the holiday season is high, and foreign workers play a crucial role in meeting this demand.

The Harz, with its stunning valleys, mountains, and forests, is particularly affected by a labor shortage in the hospitality industry. The Harz Tourism Association has reported an increasing difficulty in recruiting Germans, leading to a growing importance of foreign workers in the region. Many hotels and restaurants in the Harz rely on foreign employees, and this trend is evident in the higher share of foreign workers in gastronomy and hotels compared to other sectors in Lower Saxony.

The situation is similar along the North Sea coast, where foreign workers are essential due to the high demand for seasonal workers. The islands of Borkum, Norderney, Juist, and others, each have a unique mix of foreign seasonal workers. For instance, Romanian workers are common on Borkum and Norderney, while a larger Polish group can be found on Juist. Workers from Ukraine, Vietnam, Italy, and Croatia can be found across the islands.

The German state government has been supportive in helping businesses recruit workers, as evidenced by a partnership signed at the beginning of the year with the Moroccan region of Tanger for labor migration. There are now some Moroccan trainees in the hospitality industry in the Harz. Businesses are not just looking for seasonal workers, but also skilled workers like chefs.

The East Frisian islands, known for their half-timbered houses and narrow alleys, have also seen a significant increase in the proportion of foreign employees in the hospitality industry. In 2024, about half of the employees in the industry came from abroad, a rise from around 23% in 2014.

Foreign workers significantly contribute to the success of tourism in Lower Saxony. However, retaining them long-term can be challenging, as many are drawn to big cities. The demand for seasonal workers varies depending on the strength of the tourist season, making the process of finding and retaining foreign workers an ongoing challenge for the industry.

The main countries of origin for foreigners employed in the tourism sector in Lower Saxony are primarily European countries, as most foreign guests in Germany come from Europe, followed by North America and Asia. Despite the challenges, the contribution of foreign workers to the tourism industry in Lower Saxony is undeniable, and their role is set to continue in the years to come.

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