Pforzheim encounters 'intrinsic difficulties' as per the findings of the study
In a recent study by the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) and the Institute for Regional and Urban Development Research (ILS), the state and future viability of 400 circles (districts) in Germany were evaluated. Among these, Pforzheim and its surrounding Enzkreis were identified as regions with partial adaptation barriers.
Pforzheim, neighbouring dynamic cities with increased exclusion risk such as Karlsruhe and Stuttgart, stands out as an affluent region compared to the Enzkreis surrounding it. However, the study suggests that particular efforts are needed, especially in skilled labor and investments, for regions like Pforzheim that face adaptation barriers.
These regions, including Pforzheim, exhibit persistent problem areas. Poverty risks for children and the elderly in these areas are strongly above average. Life expectancy in these regions is lower compared to other areas, and voter participation is poorer.
The evaluation of Pforzheim by FES reveals that it is the only circle in Baden-Württemberg to be evaluated as "shaped by the past industry with structural challenges." This indicates that while Pforzheim has average wealth and poverty levels based on child poverty, old-age poverty, median income, and housing cost burden indicators, it is still caught in a negative cycle of overlapping socio-economic challenges from which it can only break free with difficulty.
The Disparity Report by FES, focusing on inequality among circles in Germany, highlights significant differences even within small areas. Regions with adaptation barriers, unlike spatial innovation poles, are affected by several strong factors such as lower proportions of knowledge-intensive jobs, below-average attractiveness for foreign skilled workers, and an impending significant skilled labor shortage.
Baden-Württemberg, along with Bavaria and Hamburg, has high inheritance and gift-giving rates, averaging between 120,000 and 250,000 euros per death before tax. In contrast, eastern German states have lower inheritance and gift-giving rates, ranging between 10,000 and 20,000 euros per death.
For those interested in accessing the full Disparity Report by FES or specific Pforzheim data, it is recommended to consult the official Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung website or contact FES directly for the latest publications relevant to German regional inequalities. While no online search result provides the detailed report or data you requested, a detailed synthesis could be provided if more targeted or internal documents become accessible.
