Key concerns among respondents to Ipsos’ survey include Germany’s immigration policies, poverty, and rising inflation.
A recent Ipsos poll across 29 countries reveals widespread German pessimism about the nation’s trajectory, marking a ten-year low in public optimism. Germany’s economy has contracted for two consecutive years, uniquely among G7 nations. This downturn stems from a prolonged slump in manufacturing, particularly the automotive sector, partly attributed to the shift from cheaper Russian gas to pricier US LNG.
The Ipsos survey indicates only 18% of Germans are satisfied with the current situation. Economic pessimism is prevalent, with nearly three-quarters of respondents expressing negative sentiment—an 11% year-on-year increase.
The survey, conducted from November 22 to December 6 with approximately 1,000 participants, highlights immigration as a major concern for 35% of Germans. Poverty and inequality follow closely at 33%, with rising inflation cited by 31%. Other worries include crime, extremist ideologies, and potential military conflict.
Germany’s Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) reported a second consecutive year of economic contraction in 2024—a first in over two decades. GDP fell 0.2% following a 0.3% decline in 2023. Destatis president Ruth Brand attributed this to increased competition in export markets, high energy costs, and persistently high interest rates.
In a late December interview with RT Balkan TV, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova suggested that past cooperation with Russia contributed to Germany’s economic growth. She claimed that US pressure severed this mutually beneficial partnership, leading to the current economic decline and prompting German companies to relocate elsewhere.