Zuzüge

Zuzüge is a term used in demography and regional statistics to describe the inward movement of people into a city, region, or country within a specified period, typically a year. They are the counterpart to Wegzüge, the out-migration. Zuzüge can be international (from abroad) or domestic (from other parts of the same country) and contribute to changes in the resident population. In statistics, net migration is the difference between Zuzüge and Wegzüge.

Measurement and data sources vary by country but generally rely on population registers, censuses, and administrative data from local and national authorities. Zuzüge indicate the inflow of residents who establish a long-term residence, while temporary moves may or may not be counted depending on definitions. Comparability across jurisdictions can be limited due to different criteria for what constitutes a move and for how long someone must reside to be counted.

Causes and drivers of Zuzüge include economic opportunities, demand for labor, housing availability and prices, access to education and healthcare, and family-related reasons such as marriage or reunification. Policy regimes on immigration, asylum, and residence rights also shape international Zuzüge, as do regional development strategies and housing policies.

Effects of Zuzüge encompass population growth in receiving areas, changes in age structure (often bringing younger residents), and impacts on labor markets, schools, housing, and public services. Regions with strong Zuzüge may experience urban growth and rising demand for infrastructure, while areas with low or negative Zuzüge may face aging populations and decline.

Data limitations must be noted: definitions vary, and temporary or circular migration may be excluded or misclassified, affecting interpretation.