Saxony has always struggled with its image - the Free State is dependent on skilled workers from abroad. The Economy for a Cosmopolitan Saxony association calls for voting.
Dresden (dpa/sn) - The Saxon economy is hoping for a sign of a cosmopolitan and democratic Saxony in the local elections on Sunday. "There is a lot at stake," said CEO Robert Czajkowski from the Economy for a Cosmopolitan Saxony association. He called on people to encourage people to go to the polling station to their neighbors and at work. "We have to mobilize the people so that democratic forces can have their say."
The image of the Free State is repeatedly negatively influenced by a minority, said Czajkowski. That harms the image and may also discourage skilled workers from coming to Bavaria. The commitment to cosmopolitanism must be documented and carried abroad. In the state elections in September 2019, the AfD became the second strongest with 27.5 percent.
According to the association, which includes Volkswagen, Infineon and Mitteldeutsche Flughafen AG, the shortage of skilled workers is one of the most pressing problems in the Saxon economy. By 2030 there would be a shortage of around 320,000 skilled workers - with around two million employees. The association relies, for example, on workshops and lectures on integration and intercultural understanding and participates in the specialist information centers on immigration.
Saxony is dependent on immigration, stressed Czajkowski. "We won't be able to close the gaps on our own." In this context, a "cosmopolitan and positive face" is important that does justice to the reality on site. According to Czajkowski, a distorted image is often shown. "But that doesn't correspond to the majority of people in the country."
Mayors and Lord Mayors will be elected in 185 cities and communities on Sunday, including Dresden. In addition, the voters in nine districts decide on a new district administrator.
