Studies on the issue are scarce, but the German Economic Institute (IW) in Cologne estimated in early 2025 that at least 3.3 million people were working illegally in Germany in 2024 – a conservative figure. Researchers suggest the real number could be as high as 8 to 10 million. Companies surveyed reported losses of around 5% of their turnover, which would amount to roughly €300 billion a year. According to data from the FKS (Finanzkontrolle Schwarzarbeit, financial control of undeclared work)
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As a Berlin correspondent for the French and Swiss press since the late 1990s, I cover a wide range of economic, political and social issues, with a particular focus on the German business and labour market. My areas of interest include co-determination, digitalisation, demographics and ESG/DEI policies.