welt.de
East-West Germany: 30 Years After Reunification
Thirty years after German reunification, significant disparities persist between East and West Germany in housing, wealth, and family structures, despite some convergence.
- How do wealth and inheritance patterns reflect the lasting impact of the division between East and West Germany?
- A substantial wealth gap persists, rooted in the socialist economic system of the former East Germany, which hindered asset accumulation. In 2018, West German households still possessed more than double the wealth of those in the East. This disparity is further reflected in inheritance; in 2023, per capita inheritance and gifts exceeding tax thresholds were over three times higher in the West (€1,700) than in the East (€500).
- What are the most significant differences in housing between East and West Germany 30 years after reunification?
- The average living space per person has increased significantly in both East and West Germany since 1990, reaching 47.5 square meters by the end of 2023. However, rents remain considerably lower in the East; for instance, the average net cold rent per square meter in Saxony-Anhalt was €5.38 in 2022, compared to the national average of €7.28.
- What are the key trends in family structures and demographics in Germany, and how do these relate to the broader societal context?
- The traditional family structure is no longer the majority model, with only 49% of the population living in families in 2024, down from 60% in 1991. This decline is a broader societal trend, not solely attributable to reunification. Furthermore, the number of children has decreased, and women are having their first child later in life (over 30 years old on average).
Cognitive Concepts
Bias by Omission
While the text covers several key areas, further analysis could include data on income inequality within each region, or a deeper exploration of the factors contributing to the wealth gap. However, the scope of the text appears to intentionally focus on a broad overview, so these omissions may not be considered biased.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article directly addresses the issue of wealth inequality between East and West Germany, highlighting the persistent gap in wealth, income, and inheritance. The data presented shows a reduction in the disparity over time, indicating progress towards reducing inequalities, although significant disparities remain. This aligns with SDG 10, which aims to reduce inequality within and among countries.