“Denk’ ich an Deutschland in der Nacht” – this famous opening line of Heinrich Heine’s poem Night Thoughts, written during his exile in France, seems to resonate with many Germans even today. Positive impulses appear to have been lost, and the numbers speak for themselves.
A sense of progress in Germany – currently only among emigrants
In December 2024, 82 percent of Germans believed that the country was heading in the wrong direction—a striking increase of eleven percent compared to the previous year. Globally, only 37 percent of people view their country critically. Similarly, the number of Germans perceiving the economic situation as poor rose by eleven percent to 73 percent.
Given these figures, one might question whether electing a Chancellor in February 2025 was necessary—or whether electing a motivational coach might have been more appropriate.
Poverty – rising numbers of homeless
Fear of poverty affects 33 percent of Germans and includes concerns about social injustice. Whether these factors are seen as personal risks or societal issues remains unclear. What is clear is that these fears are justified: while there were 262,000 homeless people in Germany in 2022, this number climbed to 531,600 by 2024 (Source: Der Spiegel). It is not unlikely that individuals facing job insecurity also fear falling into the welfare spiral and losing their homes.
Inflation more critical than violence
True to the motto “It usually happens to others,” perceived rising violence is not considered Germany’s biggest problem. Inflation tops the list of German fears at 31 percent, six points ahead of violence and crime (25 percent).
Despite this, most Germans—aside from those in gastronomy—have managed inflation relatively well over recent years. There was enough money for New Year’s fireworks, and tobacco consumption in 2024 was higher than in the previous two years—two household expenses often cut when money is tight. Inflation affects everyone; street robbery affects only a few.
Climate change – Germany more open to energy transition than media suggests
Climate change causes anxiety about the future for 21 percent of the population. Conversely, support for renewable energy remains high despite some politicians’ statements. Positive attitudes toward wind energy are evident among 68.9 percent in West Germany and 54.4 percent in East Germany. Support for solar energy is even greater, with 84.7 percent approval in West Germany and 77.9 percent in East Germany (Source: IW Köln e.V.).
Health care concerns
Twenty percent of Germans feel uneasy about health care and nursing conditions. These concerns are justified given the financial situation of statutory health insurance and long-term care insurance. Additional contributions increased significantly at the start of 2025, while nursing care itself faces severe challenges due to staff shortages and nursing home closures. Care is becoming a luxury good. It is almost surprising that health care does not weigh more heavily on citizens’ minds.
Corruption not an issue in Germany
In one area, Germans remain notably optimistic: only nine percent see financial and political corruption as a risk—far below the global average of 27 percent. Only France and Sweden (8 percent each) and Singapore (7 percent) are even less concerned (Source: ipsos.com).
In contrast, countries like Indonesia (59 percent) and Hungary (50 percent) lead global rankings for corruption concerns.
Unemployment – a persistent fear
Job loss remains one of the most significant risks for working individuals. While short-term income deficits may be manageable, prolonged unemployment makes returning to work increasingly difficult. Among unemployed individuals, the rate of mental illness stands at 34 percent—double that of employed people (16 percent) (Source: Uni Kassel).
It is therefore understandable that fear of unemployment ranks high among people’s concerns. The unemployment rate rose from 4.9 percent in May 2022 to 6.4 percent by January 2025.
What’s next for Germany?
It is undeniable that recent years have brought little political or social progress in Germany. The COVID-19 pandemic left deep scars on social life, while politically little has been achieved due to sluggish grand coalitions and ongoing disputes within the federal government since 2021. Forward-looking impulses were missing entirely. Perhaps new U.S. policies will inspire Berlin’s future government to take more decisive action—a shift that could energize citizens and offer new opportunities for progress.
