taz.de
Germany Lacks Data on Children Affected by Utility Shutoffs and Evictions
In 2023, German utility companies cut off electricity to 204,441 households and gas to 28,059; 32,669 evictions occurred. The government lacks data on how many children were affected, despite concerns raised by a Left Party politician.
- How many children in Germany were affected by electricity or gas shutoffs and evictions in 2023?
- In 2023, German utility companies cut off electricity to 204,441 households and gas to 28,059, while 32,669 evictions occurred. The government doesn't track how many children were affected by these actions.
- What are the underlying causes contributing to the increase in utility shutoffs and evictions in Germany?
- The lack of data on children affected by utility shutoffs and evictions reveals a gap in understanding the societal impact of these measures. While the number of shutoffs and evictions is recorded, data disaggregation by household composition is absent, hindering effective policy responses.
- What policy changes are needed to address the lack of data and support families with children facing housing insecurity and utility disruptions?
- The rising trend of families, including children, facing housing loss and utility shutoffs highlights a need for more comprehensive data collection and targeted support programs. The current lack of data obscures the true scale of the problem and hampers the development of effective solutions.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the issue around the government's lack of data on children affected by energy shutoffs and evictions. This framing emphasizes the government's inaction and potential negligence, rather than focusing on solutions or alternative perspectives. The headline and introduction immediately establish this critical point, setting the tone for the entire piece. While acknowledging statistics on overall shutoffs and evictions, the article consistently brings the focus back to the missing data on children, implying a deliberate disregard by the authorities.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral, focusing on factual reporting. Terms like "dramatisch" (dramatic) are used, but within the context of the severity of the situation described, this is not necessarily biased. The article accurately quotes sources and refrains from using loaded language to unfairly portray any party involved.
Bias by Omission
The article highlights a significant bias by omission: the lack of data on the number of children affected by energy shutoffs and evictions. The German government's inability to provide this data is presented as a key issue, suggesting a deliberate avoidance of addressing the problem's impact on children. The article mentions anecdotal evidence from the Berlin consumer center and the Federal Association for Homeless Aid, but these are not comprehensive data sets and don't quantify the scope of the problem concerning children. This omission hinders a complete understanding of the issue's severity and its disproportionate impact on vulnerable families.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights a significant number of energy shutoffs and evictions, disproportionately affecting families with children. This directly contributes to increased poverty and vulnerability among affected households, hindering their ability to meet basic needs and potentially leading to further social and economic hardship.