Young Germans Feel Disconnected from Politics, Study Reveals

A significant portion of young people in Germany express skepticism about their ability to influence political change, according to a comprehensive survey commissioned by the Bertelsmann Foundation. This study, which involved over 2,500 participants aged 16 to 30, sheds light on the increasing disconnection between youth and the political establishment.

Limited Belief in Political Impact

The findings reveal that only 20% of young Germans believe their personal commitment can make a difference in societal or political outcomes. Almost 40% of respondents think social conditions are unchangeable, while nearly half report feeling overwhelmed by the magnitude of global challenges. Despite this, the majority continue to support democracy, with around 61% affirming it as the best form of government, even if they acknowledge its imperfections.

Distrust and Barriers to Participation

The study highlights widespread distrust in politics among young people. Approximately 38% reported a lack of trust in political institutions, with many perceiving political parties as dismissive of youth concerns. Only 8% felt that politicians genuinely consider the perspectives of young people, and fewer than one in ten believe political parties are open to their ideas.

Barriers to political engagement further exacerbate the problem. Half of the participants indicated a lack of accessible opportunities for involvement beyond voting. Many cited unclear pathways to engagement and excessive bureaucratic hurdles as reasons for their disengagement. While nearly half of the respondents discuss politics with others, only 15% share political content online, 12% participate in local demonstrations, and 9% engage in sustained volunteer activities.

Youth Frustration Rooted in Structural Issues

The frustration among young people does not stem from a rejection of democracy but rather dissatisfaction with its implementation. Many feel their voices are unheard, with nearly 50% expressing dissatisfaction with the way democracy functions in Germany. The discontent is particularly pronounced in eastern Germany, where trust in political systems tends to be lower.

Calls for Change: Bridging the Gap Between Youth and Politics

Experts argue that fostering a more inclusive political environment is essential to reversing this trend. Regina von Görtz, a youth engagement expert with the Bertelsmann Foundation, emphasizes the importance of making young people feel valued in political processes. “Young people would engage more actively if they knew their efforts were impactful and their arguments were heard,” she stated.

Von Görtz suggests targeted initiatives to address the disconnect, such as the creation of youth councils at the municipal level. These councils could serve as platforms for young people to voice their concerns and collaborate with local decision-makers. Encouragingly, a significant portion of the respondents expressed willingness to engage in activities like signing petitions or participating in volunteer work if they had clear guidance and support.

Shared Interests and Aspirations

The survey also identified key issues that resonate strongly with young Germans, including mental health, education, inflation, and global peace. Around 60% of respondents expressed a desire to learn more about societal and political topics relevant to their lives, signaling an untapped potential for engagement if the right frameworks are in place.

To rebuild trust and foster meaningful participation, political leaders must prioritize outreach to younger generations. Transparent communication, accessible pathways for engagement, and a genuine commitment to addressing youth concerns are crucial. Without such efforts, the risk of prolonged disillusionment and disengagement remains high.

By addressing these challenges, Germany has an opportunity to re-engage its youth, empowering them to become active contributors to its democratic processes.