Resilience as the key: Germany's path to a sustainable economy

Resilience as the key: Germany's path to a sustainable economy

On June 3, 2025, Professor Dr. h.c. mult. Roland Koch discusses the challenges of the current time and the crucial role of resilience in Germany's future development. In an article on The German economy It is emphasized that resilience is seen as the basis for the success of the new federal government. Trust in a resilient order promotes optimism and confidence among the population.

Markus Brunnermeier, a Princeton economist, emphasizes the need for resilience to be not just an individual goal, but also a societal goal to ensure prosperity for all. To this end, six areas of economic and social policy should be brought into focus:

• Vertrauen in Dienstleistungen statt industrielle Produktion.
• Umgang mit neuen Herausforderungen im Welthandel.
• Ordnungspolitik: private Risiken vs. staatliche Innovationen.
• Technologieoffene Energiepolitik.
• Staatliche Finanzpolitik und deren Auswirkungen auf Sozialsysteme.
• Demografischer Wandel und individuelle Mitverantwortung.

A resilient approach for the social market economy

The social market economy is described as a concept of resilience. It has long been a stabilizing element of the German economy, but is increasingly facing global challenges. A study by Xpert.digital points to the need to further develop the model of the social market economy in order to respond more resiliently to globalization, the shortage of skilled workers and advances in artificial intelligence.

Resilience encompasses several key qualities: adaptability, robustness, innovativeness and sustainability. These characteristics are crucial for successfully managing both the opportunities and risks of globalization.

The challenges of globalization and the shortage of skilled workers

Globalization results in more complex and vulnerable supply chains. In order to minimize risks, smart internationalization strategies are necessary, which include, among other things, diversifying supply chains and strengthening international partnerships.

In addition, the shortage of skilled workers is an urgent problem. More training in MINT subjects and flexible, part-time learning models could help here. Automation and the use of AI also contribute to increasing efficiency.

Artificial intelligence is considered a driving force for economic transformation. It not only optimizes production processes, but also enables the creation of new business areas. Nevertheless, an educational offensive to teach AI skills is essential in order to ensure that digital change is fair.

Sustainability as a basis for resilience

Sustainability is a central component of a resilient economy. The integration of environmental aspects into economic decisions and the promotion of the circular economy are of great importance. In addition, sustainable supply chains must be ensured and awareness of environmentally friendly actions must be created.

The responsible use of resources is also reflected in the need for government investments in infrastructure, education and research. Clear regulatory frameworks for sustainability and social working conditions are essential to include society in the transformation process.

In summary, Roland Koch sees the resilient society as a fleet of small ships that travel together to a destination. Individuals contribute to overcoming challenges through their adaptability, while leadership should motivate the collaborative production of resilience. Fatalism and pessimism are identified as hindering society's ability to adapt.

The future requires comprehensive adaptation to the demands of the 21st century, aiming to balance economic efficiency, social equity and environmental sustainability.