Distrust in the welfare state: Germans doubt fairness and the future!

Distrust in the welfare state: Germans doubt fairness and the future!

A recently published study by the Cluster of Excellence “The Politics of Inequality” at the University of Konstanz shows that Germans’ trust in their welfare state has declined significantly. Over 70 percent of those surveyed expressed (very) low confidence in the performance, fairness and long-term financial viability of the social system in Germany. People with low incomes are particularly affected, as they often perceive unequal treatment in the area of ​​pensions and social benefits, which may result from deep-rooted concerns about poverty in old age. Loud uni-konstanz.de Respondents from the lower income bracket also feel a significantly lower sense of political self-efficacy compared to their wealthier counterparts.

These worrying results are also reflected in perceptions of political participation. Many Germans feel politically powerless and see politics as unresponsive, which undermines trust in democracy. Loud wirsindderwandel.de An increased turn away from political participation can be observed based on perceptions of inequality. People who feel left behind tend to withdraw from democracy. This reinforces the interaction between economic and political inequality. This development is not only reflected in a decline in trust in the welfare state, but also in a general dissatisfaction with the democratic system.

Skepticism about social benefits

Old-age pensions are particularly criticized, while family policy is rated better. Overall, over 70 percent of those surveyed see a lack of fairness in the welfare state wirsindderwandel.de determines. This skepticism is reinforced by a general dissatisfaction in society and correlates with a progressive alienation from politics. Recommendations from experts to combat this crisis of trust include improving political communication and greater involvement of citizens in political decisions. In addition, a comprehensive strengthening of political education is called for, especially for people with low political self-efficacy, in order to restore trust in a fair and sustainable welfare state.

The welfare state in a historical context

The constitutional basis of the German welfare state is based on Articles 20 and 28 of the Basic Law. More than 70 years after the creation of these framework conditions, trust in the principles that have existed since Otto von Bismarck's social legislation of the Empire appears to be waning. Bismarck's introduction of social safety nets in the 1880s, which burdened workers and employers alike, has a long tradition that continues to this day. The insurance system, which is based primarily on the principle of solidarity, is perceived by large parts of the population as no longer efficient or fair, especially with regard to pensions and health care. bpb.de Regarding the existing differences between East and West Germany, East Germans perceive greater unequal treatment in the areas of wages, pensions and political representation.

The current results make it clear that trust in the welfare state and in democracy are closely interrelated. Without measures to ensure the fairness and sustainability of the social system, this negative development could further intensify and further restrict the political participation of disadvantaged groups.