Concerns are mounting over potential further drownings this summer, as highlighted by Peter Harzheim, president of the German Swimming Masters Association. He expressed worry regarding the increasing number of individuals visiting lakes and rivers with insufficient swimming abilities, particularly at popular bathing spots and along rivers.
The German Life-Saving Society (DLRG) reports a rise in drownings, with 411 fatalities in 2024, a significant increase of approximately 30 compared to the previous year. Several tragic incidents have already occurred this year involving victims in recreational water settings.
Harzheim attributes part of the problem to a concerning lack of swimming proficiency among younger generations. According to his assessment, roughly half of fourth-grade students currently lack the skills to swim safely or at all. While acknowledging the need for broader systemic solutions, he emphasizes the crucial role of parental involvement in ensuring children learn to swim under supervision. A significant shortage of swimming instructors, with a nationwide deficit of at least 3,000, further exacerbates the situation.
Janine Wissler, deputy parliamentary group chair of the Left party, is calling on the federal government to substantially increase investment in swimming facilities. She argues that the previously announced one billion euros from the federal infrastructure special fund earmarked for renovating dilapidated sports facilities is insufficient to address the deficiencies in swimming education. Wissler suggests a sustained annual investment of at least one billion euros specifically for swimming pools is necessary until the mid-2030s to tackle the backlog of needed repairs and improvements.