Current Event 3/4/12

The German Parliament has begun to discuss a government draft bill in an effort to lure more foreign workers to Germany. The bill would require all non-EU foreign workers to carry a "Blue Card," the European equivalent of the US Green Card. Although Germany has been slow in implementing this measure, it is probably because the country is not noted for immigration or immigration policies.

However, Germany's zero to negative population growth means that by 2030, Germany will be short 6 million workers. This means that Germany's economy could take a serious blow. A lack of skilled workers will also decrease the quality of work and production in Germany, something that the highly industrialized nation cannot afford. 

To increase the appeal for foreign workers, Germany is also lowering their standards for hiring workers. Foreign workers must now make at least 45, 000 euros in salary per year and have a college degree. This will grant them a temporary residence permit. Salary requirements may be even lower for those whose skills are in very high demand, such as engineers or workers in health professions. 

The new policy also applies to German students, who will also get residence permits if they have pursued a job corresponding to their degree for two years.
Not only does this bill give hope to the decreasing German workforce, but it gives hope to foreign workers who have previously been unable to work in Germany. The lowering of hiring requirements is a step which shows Germany as a more open country. Lowering hiring requirements also shows that Germany wishes to keep up its skilled labor base and massive economy, an ambition which is being accomplished more rarely in European countries today. With enough work and incentive, the Blue Card bill will not only bolster Germany's economy today, but fortify the economy for tomorrow.

http://www.dw.de/dw/article/0,,15778948,00.html