Many rural communities in Germany lack skilled workers and young trainees. Researchers from inter 3 have investigated how municipalities can become more attractive to qualified immigrants from abroad. The article provides an overview of the results of the study "How can municipalities become attractive for qualified immigrants? ", which inter 3 conducted between 2012 and 2014 on behalf of the BBSR.

In this study, municipalities play a decisive role as a source of impetus for a culture of welcome and recognition. They can also support their local companies in recruiting and networking in the run-up to attracting skilled workers. It is important to pursue a regionally adapted strategy for securing skilled workers and, above all, to provide targeted support for immigrants. Last but not least, it is important to "bring along" the population and the companies at an early stage.