# Swimming proficiency and safety initiatives in Europe > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/swimming-proficiency-and-safety-initiatives-in-europe > Updated: 2026-08-18T13:42:56.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2. Germany is experiencing a significant decline in swimming proficiency among children, with data showing that approximately one in five primary school children cannot swim at all. Experts note that the number of non-swimming children has doubled in five years, often due to a misunderstanding of swimming badges where the ‘Seepferdchen’ (Seahorse) badge is mistaken for true safety proficiency. In response to these safety concerns and long waiting lists for traditional courses, various initiatives have emerged. In Germany, a digital swimming school using an AI avatar has been introduced to guide children through exercises. Additionally, community efforts such as charity swims in Reyershausen are raising funds to finance free swimming courses for youth. Similar efforts are being seen in Austria, where cities are launching programs to provide free weekly swimming lessons to primary school classes to promote early water competence. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-18: Community initiatives promote swimming skills in Germany and Austria Community programs in Germany and Austria are launching initiatives to provide free swimming lessons and fundraising to improve water safety and skills for children. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/community-initiatives-promote-swimming-skills-in-germany-and-austria ### 2026-08-11: Germany faces declining swimming proficiency among children Declining swimming proficiency in German children has prompted new initiatives, including Germany’s first digital swimming school using AI avatars to address course shortages and safety concerns. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/germany-faces-declining-swimming-proficiency-among-children --- Cite as: Swimming proficiency and safety initiatives in Europe. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/swimming-proficiency-and-safety-initiatives-in-europe