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Growing Inequality in Germany

A study reveals rising income inequality in Germany, causing increased poverty, fear, and declining trust in institutions. Policy recommendations include stronger social safety nets and fairer taxation.

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Croatian

Germany

PoliticsEconomyGermany PovertyInequality

Hans Böckler FoundationWirtschafts- Und Sozialwissenschaftliches Institut (Wsi)

Dorothee Spannagel

What policy recommendations do the authors propose to address the growing income inequality?: To address the growing inequality, the authors recommend strengthening collective bargaining agreements, improving social security, and upgrading infrastructure. They also advocate for reforming the debt brake and implementing more effective taxation of wealthy citizens.
What are the key findings of the Hans Böckler Foundation's study on income inequality in Germany?: The study by the Hans Böckler Foundation reveals a growing income inequality in Germany, leading to increased poverty and fear of the future.
What are the attitudes of low-income individuals towards the government and their voting intentions?: The study suggests a vicious cycle: economic hardship and insecurity discourage political participation. Over a third of low-income individuals believe governing parties are deceiving the public, with nearly 20% planning to abstain from voting.
How has income inequality changed in Germany between 2010 and 2021, and what is the current poverty rate?: The Gini coefficient, a measure of inequality, rose from 0.282 in 2010 to 0.31 in 2021, indicating a widening gap between the rich and poor. In 2021, 17.8% of Germans lived in poverty, up from 14.2% in 2010.
What impact is the growing income inequality having on public trust in institutions and political participation?: The rising inequality is eroding trust in German institutions, particularly among low-income individuals. Many feel excluded from the political system and believe their concerns are ignored, leading to political disengagement.

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