State-to-State: Structural Change and Revitalization in Post-industrial Regions
Channel: Aspen Institute Germany
Date: 2023-09-15

The decline of certain industrial sectors poses particular challenges for the state level in both Germany and the United States. The effects of structural transformation, brought on by geopolitical and geo-economic developments, digitalization, and the increasing focus on decarbonization are notable in regions such as the Ruhr area (Ruhrgebiet) in Germany and the Rust Belt in the United States. As entire industries have folded, a lack of labor opportunities has led to an exodus of skilled workers and young people. This has accelerated an overall decline in public infrastructure and threatens social cohesion. Policymakers on both sides of the Atlantic have taken varied approaches to an overarching economic restructuring, offering an instructive comparative learning opportunity. In this panel discussion with state legislators from Germany and the United States, we will discuss the numerous consequences for affected regions, highlight various measures being taken to sustain regions hit hard by post-industrialization, and explore ways to ensure that such transformations can be successfully managed in the future.

We will discuss these issues with Senator Dave Argall (Republican), Member of the Pennsylvania State Senate, Wibke Brems MdL (Alliance 90/Die Grünen), Chair of the Green Party in the State Parliament of North Rhine-Westphalia, and Romina Plonsker MdL (CDU), Member of the State Parliament of North Rhine-Westphalia.