A recent survey, the Deutschland-Monitor 2025, reveals a growing openness to authoritarian ideas within Germany, particularly in the eastern regions of the country. While most Germans remain supportive of democratic principles, the study highlights increasing dissatisfaction with the current political system and a sense of insecurity fueled by economic challenges, the war in Ukraine, and a perceived instability in the world order.
Generelle Zufriedenheit mit Demokratie
The Deutschland-Monitor, commissioned by the East Germany Commissioner Elisabeth Kaiser and conducted among approximately 8,000 people, found that 98 percent of respondents affirm the “idea of democracy,” and 89 percent reject dictatorship under all circumstances. However, satisfaction with the “functioning of democracy” is lower, with 60 percent expressing contentment nationwide and only 51 percent in eastern Germany, though the latter figure represents an 8 percentage point increase since 2023.
Autoritäre Ideen finden offenbar Anklang
The survey indicates that roughly one in five Germans agree with statements supporting a single party system, a strong leader unconstrained by parliament, or even dictatorship as a viable form of government. This sentiment is more pronounced in eastern Germany, where approximately one in four individuals express similar views. Specifically, 21 percent of all respondents are at least receptive to an authoritarian worldview.
Sympathien für das “Modell Diktatur”?
The study reveals that a compact percentage of Germans—4 percent nationwide and 6 percent in the east—fully agree with the statement, “Under certain circumstances, a dictatorship is the better form of government.” A further 7 percent nationally and 12 percent in eastern Germany partially agree. Similarly, 11 percent of Germans nationwide support the idea of political decisions being made by a “strong leadership personality” without parliamentary oversight, a figure that rises to 15 percent in eastern Germany.
Mehrheit ist nicht bereit, länger zu arbeiten
While a majority of Germans are willing to accept some level of personal sacrifice in areas like defense, the economy, and digitalization, a significant 58 percent reject the idea of working longer for the same retirement benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Deutschland-Monitor?
The Deutschland-Monitor is an annual survey, started in 2023, commissioned by the East Germany Commissioner, that assesses public opinion on a range of social and political issues in Germany.
What regions display the most support for authoritarian ideas?
Eastern Germany demonstrates a higher level of sympathy for authoritarian concepts compared to western Germany, with a greater proportion of respondents expressing agreement with statements supporting a single party, a strong leader, or even dictatorship.
What is the general level of satisfaction with democracy in Germany?
While 98 percent of those surveyed affirm the “idea of democracy,” only 60 percent nationwide—and 51 percent in eastern Germany—express satisfaction with the “functioning of democracy.”
As Germany navigates a period of significant change, will these trends toward authoritarian sentiment continue to grow, or will efforts to address economic inequalities and strengthen democratic institutions prove effective in restoring public trust?
