Articles by this author
Which of Germany's hospitals are among the 'world's best' in 2024?
A number of hospitals in Germany made it on a list of the world’s top ranked medical facilities this year. The Local takes a look at the nation’s top rated hospitals.
Where in Germany passengers are most affected by Friday's public transport strikes
Public transport strikes are to reach their climax on Friday, after a week of local strikes spread across Germany. We explain where passengers are most affected, and why there are climate protests involved.
'No family life': A Berlin bus driver explains why public transport workers are striking
Many passengers will suffer bus and train delays and cancellations this week as public transport strikes sweep the country. But employees say these strikes are needed to improve working conditions. The Local speaks with a Berlin bus driver about union workers’ demands.
The destinations you can reach by direct night train from Berlin
A number of new night train routes have been added or expanded across Europe this year, some of which connect the German capital directly to popular travel destinations. Here are the highlights for 2024.
Who can apply for Germany's new renewable heating grants for homes?
According to Germany’s new heating law, many newly installed heating systems need to be powered primarily with renewable energy - but there are also hefty state subsidies on offer for eco-friendly heaters.
Where are public transport strikes taking place this week in Germany?
Public transport passengers around Germany should expect delays and some cancellations this week, as 90,000 employees from local transport companies are striking on various days from Monday to Saturday.
Two years later, two Berlin residents from Ukraine on how war affects their lives
When Russia invaded Ukraine two years ago, a wave of refugees fleeing from the conflict landed in Germany. The Local speaks with people who were directly affected - how their lives have been changed by the war, and how they're moving forward.
Better childcare to quicker visas: How Germany wants to attract more workers
German Economics Minister Robert Habeck recently said that Germany’s lack of workers is currently the biggest threat to economic growth. Why is Germany so short on skilled workers, and how do leaders hope to find more of them?
EXPLAINED: How to find the best high-yield savings accounts in Germany
A savings account can be a wise choice if you want to earn some interest on your deposits and keep them secure. The Local takes a look at the high-yield savings account options available in Germany.
Can you get a mortgage in Germany without permanent residency?
For most people a mortgage is needed to buy a house, and in Germany they are available for both citizens and foreigners who meet a few requirements. Here's what you need to secure one.
Can a green energy transition plan help revitalise the German economy?
A new German subsidy scheme to help industrial producers decarbonize their processes may bring broader benefits for the German economy, such as keeping key-players in Germany and adding jobs.
How does Germany's 'phantom border' still divide the country?
The inner German border separated East and West Germany from 1949 until the two sides reunited in 1990. Though the border was destroyed 30 years ago, it still impacts the lives of people living on either side of the line.
School drop-outs rise across Germany as resources and teachers spread thin
Germany sees a high number of school drop-outs each year compared with most other European countries. The problem feeds into the country’s labour shortage, and is made worse by an education system that lacks teachers and resources.
EXPLAINED: Can you take your German pension with you when you move abroad?
If you’ve worked for a few years in Germany, you’ve probably contributed a decent sum toward your pension fund. But if you plan to leave the country, whether or not you can take that nest egg with you depends on a few factors.
‘Nachzahlung’: What are the rules around additional housing costs in Germany?
In Germany, if a utility bill is delivered too late, tenants don’t have to pay it. The Local takes a look at ancillary costs and when ‘additional payments’ can be collected.
Why a Deutsche Bahn job ad sparked laughs - and likely a few applicants
Deutsche Bahn was looking for a computer systems administrator familiar with a 30-year-old Windows operating system, based on a job advertisement that was found online.
Card over cash? Why Germany is seeing a new payment preference
Cash has long been king in Germany, with many smaller retailers refusing to join the rest of the world in adopting contactless payment systems. But card-based payments are on the rise, as recent stats about Girocard use reveal.
Colder winters and refugees: How changing ocean currents could impact Germany
A new study suggests that ocean currents in the Atlantic could be stopped by climate change, which would have huge impacts on weather in northern and western Europe.
What are my rights to take breaks at work in Germany?
Workers in Germany don't need to feel guilty for taking breaks on the job - in fact daily rest time is regulated by law. Here are the rules for clocking out before the day is done.
Who qualifies for 'special integration' status under Germany's citizenship law?
Under Germany's new citizenship law, foreign nationals can apply for citizenship after five years of residence, or just three years for those who achieve 'special integration'. But what exactly qualifies you for that status?
Which Bavaria-based companies regularly hire English speakers?
Bavaria is no doubt a beautiful state with a strong economy, but can be a hard place for non-German speakers to integrate. The Local takes a look at job opportunities in Germany’s southeastern 'Free State.'
INTERVIEW: How universal basic income could benefit Germany
Proponents of universal basic income - a monthly financial allowance for all citizens - say that it reduces inequality and creates a fairer society. Miriam Witz, project developer at Mein Grundeinkommen, talks to The Local about how it could be brought to Germany.
Flu cases on the rise in Germany: When (and how) should you take sick leave?
Following a dip in infections around the turn of the year, flu and respiratory illness rates are spiking again. Thankfully German labour laws ensure that workers have plenty of opportunity to take time off when they are sick.