Thüringen Faces Sharp Aging and Population Decline Challenges Shaping Regional Policy

Thüringen is confronting a significant demographic shift characterized by an aging and shrinking population. As of 2025, the state lost approximately 14,600 residents in 2024 alone, resulting in empty kindergarten spots fueled by a historically low birth rate. Currently, Thüringen has the third oldest population in Germany with an average age of 47.9 years, underscoring the urgency to address its demographic trajectory.

Minister President Mario Voigt highlights the need for policies that encourage family formation to counterbalance the decline and stresses the importance of supporting an aging populace through enhanced healthcare services. The critical shortage of skilled labor due to demographic changes is prompting calls for immigration, notably from countries like Vietnam, as emphasized by Migrationsministerin Beate Meißner, who points to recent initiatives recruiting seasonal workers and apprentices from there.

However, this approach faces opposition from the AfD, with Björn Höcke arguing that immigration is not a sustainable solution. Instead, Höcke advocates for boosting the birth rate through robust family policies.

Voigt plans to harness technological advancements and data analytics for proactive policymaking by developing a 'Thüringen-Cockpit' to better anticipate demographic shifts and inform decisions. This strategic, data-driven response reflects the complex balancing act between immigration, family support, and service provision in the face of Thüringen's demographic challenges.