As well known and much discussed, the European demographic development will mean problems for economic growth in the future. While the part of the population, which is older than 65, will continue to rise both relative to the labour force and in absolute terms, the active population between 20 and 64 probably will fall, at least relatively if not absolutely. In this paper we will treat two central questions. The first question is dealing with the demographic development and possible effects of migration in West Europe. Regarding the new member countries and the candidate countries, with the exception of Turkey, the demographic development here is even more difficult than the one in West Europe. Furthermore, migration to Europe could implicate a brain drain, which may deteriorate the economic and social situation in the countries of emigration. In this part we even will discuss, whether the population situation in Europe could lead to an enlargement of the EU or other arrangements of co-operation with countries, which traditionally are not seen as candidates for membership. The second main question in the paper will discuss the implications of the population development and of migration for economic growth. A difference can be made between growth of total GDP, GDP per head of population and GDP per employed person. Yet the main emphasis of the empirical growth discussion will deal with GDP pc. We will even discus, whether the possibilities of falling growth could be leveled out by higher formation of physical and human capital, changes of participation rates and working hours.
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