Survey Reveals German Youth's Widespread Disillusionment with Politics

A majority of young Germans feel their political engagement has little impact, with many citing distrust in political institutions and insufficient avenues for participation.

• Only 19% of Germans aged 16-30 believe their personal political engagement can lead to meaningful change, according to a study by the Bertelsmann Foundation.
• Approximately 40% of respondents think societal conditions are unchangeable, while nearly half feel overwhelmed by global problems.
• Distrust in politics is high, with only 8% believing political parties take young people's concerns seriously, and fewer than 10% seeing parties as open to their ideas.
• Over half of those surveyed feel there are not enough opportunities for political participation beyond voting, and 43% are unsure how to get involved.
• Despite disillusionment, 61% of respondents still view democracy as the best form of government, though many express dissatisfaction with its functioning in Germany.

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