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German Study Shows Rise in Xenophobia, Decline in Democratic Satisfaction
A German study reveals rising xenophobia and declining satisfaction with democracy, particularly in the East, with the AfD showing the highest levels of xenophobic views.
French
Germany
PoliticsGermany DemocracyStudyXenophobia
Leipzig University's Competence Center For Research On Right-Wing Extremism And DemocracyHeinrich Böll FoundationOtto Brenner FoundationAlternative For Germany (Afd)Office For The Protection Of The Constitution
Elmar BrählerOliver DeckerKaramba Diaby
- What are the key demographics and methodologies of the study?
- The study, conducted by the Leipzig University's Competence Center for Research on Right-Wing Extremism and Democracy, interviewed 2,500 people. It found that antisemitic attitudes increased in West Germany while decreasing in the East.
- How has satisfaction with democracy changed in East and West Germany?
- Satisfaction with democracy is declining across Germany, particularly in the East, where acceptance dropped from 53.5% in 2022 to 29.7% in 2024. Western Germany also saw a decrease, though less dramatic.
- What are the main findings of the 2024 study on authoritarianism in Germany?
- A 2024 study on authoritarianism in Germany reveals that xenophobia is increasing in both East and West, but the gap between the regions is narrowing. Approval of xenophobic statements rose significantly in West Germany, approaching levels seen in the East.
- Which political party exhibits the highest levels of xenophobia, according to the study?
- The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party showed the highest levels of xenophobic views among respondents, with 61% agreeing with statements expressing a negative view of foreigners. The study highlights the AfD's influence on spreading xenophobic attitudes.
- What are the underlying causes and consequences of the observed trends, according to the researchers?
- The researchers note a growing sense of shared resentment across Germany, manifesting in increased xenophobia and a decline in satisfaction with the democratic system. The study emphasizes the need to address widespread dissatisfaction and uncertainty about the future.