What Do Germans Fear?
Rising prices have pushed concerns about the cost of living to first place in an annual survey for the 16th time in 35 years. Anxiety about a recession grew faster than any other worry, yet the overall level of anxiety remains comparatively low.
In Germany, financial concerns dominate the worries of many citizens, according to the annual "Fears of the Germans 2026" study conducted by insurer R+V. A majority of respondents, 59 percent, expressed anxiety over rising living costs, a seven-point increase from the previous year. Western Germans, at 60 percent, reported more concern than those in the east, at 53 percent.
This surge in financial worries, according to study leader Grischa Brower-Rabinowitsch, reflects a collective loss of confidence in the nation's economic future.
The fear of tax increases or cuts in benefits ranked second at 53 percent, up from 49 percent last year. Concerns about the burden of refugees on the state and a worsening economy followed, both at 52 percent. Housing affordability, recession fears, and migration-related issues also rank among the top concerns. Despite declining immigration, 52 percent of respondents fear the state is overburdened, while 47 percent expect increased tensions from further immigration.
Politicians' ability to manage tasks has suffered, with 48 percent of respondents fearing governance overwhelm. The government and opposition received an average grade of 4.1 on a German school scale, the worst since 2018. Global politics plays a smaller role in German fears, with 45 percent concerned about U.S. President Donald Trump's policies and 41 percent fearing the rise of authoritarian rulers.
Concerns surrounding climate change and natural disasters have dropped significantly, despite recent extreme weather events.
Written by urgent.news from The Berlin Spectator's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
