The city of Jena in eastern Germany, known for its prestigious university and cutting-edge technology companies, is facing a political shift that is causing concern among businesses, particularly in light of upcoming elections in Thuringia. The far-right Alternative for Germany party (AfD) is leading in the polls with a strong anti-foreigner stance. This has raised worries among companies like Jenoptik, a global leader in lens assemblies for tech products, about their ability to attract and retain skilled workers from outside Germany.
The rise of the AfD in Thuringia is complicating efforts to address Germany’s skilled labor shortage, which is already a pressing issue due to an aging and shrinking workforce. The state, one of the poorest in Germany, is struggling to retain young people, especially women, who often leave for better opportunities in the west. The AfD’s radical stance on immigration and its controversial leader have sparked concerns about the region’s reputation and its ability to attract both skilled workers and investors. Businesses and organizations have been working to promote tolerance and diversity in the region to counteract the far-right narrative.
For migrants like Preetam Gaikwad, a legal immigrant who has faced discrimination and racism in Jena, the political climate has created a challenging environment. From subtle instances of discrimination to hurtful comments from neighbors and children, Gaikwad and others like her are navigating a complex social landscape. Despite these challenges, Gaikwad remains hopeful and committed to staying in Jena, buoyed by her faith in democracy and the support of her employer, Jenoptik, which prioritizes diversity and inclusion in its workforce.
The support for the AfD in rural areas of Thuringia, where a majority of the population resides, is a significant concern for businesses and investors looking to operate in the region. The party’s anti-immigrant and anti-diversity platform poses a risk to the economic prospects of the area, as potential employees and investors may be deterred by the political climate. Efforts by organizations like Cosmopolitan Thuringia to promote tolerance and diversity are countering the far-right narrative, but the overall impact of the AfD’s popularity on the region’s economy remains uncertain.
As Thuringia approaches its elections, the outcome will have significant implications for the future of the region, particularly for businesses like Jenoptik that rely on a diverse and skilled workforce. The hope is that the democratic values and freedoms that have allowed companies in Jena to thrive will be preserved, regardless of the political shifts. In the face of challenges posed by the rise of the far-right, businesses, organizations, and individuals continue to advocate for inclusivity and tolerance, recognizing the importance of diversity in driving innovation and growth in the region.
