Rügen's population is changing: the south is flourishing, the north is shrinking!

Rügen's population is changing: the south is flourishing, the north is shrinking!

Population development on the island of Rügen has been a hot topic in recent years, because while the south of the island appears to be on the rise, things are looking rather bleak in the north. As the OSTSEE NEWSPAPER reports, the population of Rügen has fallen continuously since 2013. In detail, the figures are even shocking: from around 75,000 inhabitants in 1989, only a population of 65,000 remained. The north and northwest of the island in particular are showing significant declines, with the municipality of Neuenkirchen being the sad leader with a decline of 17.33 percent.

In Neuenkirchen, which was first mentioned in 1318, residents cite the isolation and lack of access to public transport as the main reasons for moving out. But not all residents are dissatisfied: some appreciate the quiet residential area and the opportunity to work from home. The town offers shopping opportunities, especially in the nearby town of Gingst, and the area remains traffic-free - ideal for a summer holiday. However, there are also concerns about declining former consumerism and stalled holiday village projects.

Fears and perspectives

Another point of criticism concerns the infrastructure - many complain about the lack of health care facilities, especially for older citizens. These are particularly affected as the decline in Neuenkirchen can be linked to the closure of apartment blocks from the army era. A real setback for the community, which is still trying to remain attractive.

In contrast, there is positive news from the south of the island. There, the community of Lancken-Granitz has experienced slight growth, despite a general downward trend in the north. The proximity to the popular seaside resorts of Binz and Sellin makes the place particularly attractive. But there are challenges here too: the holiday apartment market has reduced drastically - of 600 guest beds, only 400 remain. Small landlords have started renting out their holiday apartments permanently to counteract falling demand.

Demographic challenges on Rügen

A look at the overarching demographic trends in Germany shows that population growth is not evenly distributed. According to a forecast by the Federal Institute for Building, Urban and Spatial Research (BBSR), the population could grow to around 85.5 million by 2045, which is attributed to immigration as the main cause. Even though large cities and economically strong regions are growing, rural areas, especially in eastern Germany, are struggling against the shrinking process.

The average age of the population in Rügen is expected to rise, while the number of employable citizens in some districts could decline by up to 30 percent. Here the emphasizes daily news that the integration of new residents, sufficient skilled workers and age-appropriate living arrangements are extremely important for the future.

In summary, Rügen faces some serious challenges, while the south may have some hope. Is there perhaps a chance that the picturesque island will find its way back to success?