Eisenhüttenstadt aims for a re-election in 2026
In the heart of Brandenburg, the city of Eisenhüttenstadt is making waves with its unique Probewohnen action. This trial living initiative has attracted over 2,000 applications, including several from abroad, though the exact number of international applicants remains undisclosed.
Eisenhüttenstadt, once the epicentre of East German steel production, has undergone a significant transformation. Seventy-five years ago, it was built as a DDR model settlement, but today, it serves as a film backdrop for Germany's largest area monument.
The Probewohnen action aims to combat the city's population decline and skilled labor shortages. IT consultant Melanie Henniger and documentary filmmaker Jonas Brander were among the participants who lived in Eisenhüttenstadt for two weeks as part of the project.
Melanie found the city to be quiet at times, while Jonas expressed a desire to spend more time there. Both have expressed an interest in visiting Eisenhüttenstadt more frequently in the future. Melanie was particularly impressed by the structured, clean, and uncomplicated nature of driving in the city.
However, the trial stay of two residents was too short to properly assess daily life in Eisenhüttenstadt. The city currently has approximately 24,000 inhabitants, a significant drop from over 50,000. Many apartments in Eisenhüttenstadt are reportedly empty, a testament to the city's ongoing struggle with population decline.
The city considers the first trial stay a success, and the Probewohnen project is set to go into its second round in 2026. Three rental contracts have already been concluded with people who became aware of the city through the Probewohnen campaign and wish to move there.
Eisenhüttenstadt is not alone in its efforts. Other communities in Brandenburg, such as Guben and Eberswalde, have also offered free trial living to attract new residents. Even actor Tom Hanks has visited the former socialist city of Eisenhüttenstadt in 2011.
As Eisenhüttenstadt continues to innovate and attract attention, it remains to be seen how the Probewohnen project will contribute to its revitalisation in the coming years.
