A potential Russian attack on a NATO member state could trigger a severe supply crisis in Germany, potentially resulting in a shortfall of up to 400,000 truck drivers, according to the German Goods Transport and Logistics Association (BGL).
Dirk Engelhardt, CEO of the BGL, highlighted the escalating concerns in an interview, noting an existing shortage of 100,000 drivers within the industry. He warned that a Russian attack on a NATO nation could lead to the departure of up to 300,000 truck drivers originating from Eastern Europe, who would be compelled to return to their home countries.
Engelhardt emphasized the urgent need for expanded recruitment efforts to address the looming deficit. He specifically advocated for increasing the participation of women in the profession, suggesting that secure parking facilities and trucks equipped with amenities like showers, toilets and kitchens would be crucial to attracting and retaining female drivers. Furthermore, he proposed reactivating retired drivers and leveraging the skills of individuals currently employed in roles utilizing trucks, such as those in the fire department and Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW).
The BGL chief also called for the elimination of the current five-year qualification examination requirement for truck drivers. He cautioned that the inability to fill the potential 400,000 driver gap would severely impede the ability to support the German armed forces (Bundeswehr) and adequately supply the civilian population.
