Diversity Barometer 2025: Germany in transition – acceptance is declining!

Diversity Barometer 2025: Germany in transition – acceptance is declining!

The results of the Diversity Barometer 2025 show a worrying development in the acceptance of diversity in Germany. According to the study commissioned by the Robert Bosch Foundation and first published in 2019, the overall diversity index fell from 68 points to 63 points. This comprehensive study on the acceptance of diversity was carried out by psychologists and social scientists from Constructor University and is considered the only large, representative study of its kind in Germany.

The survey, which was carried out in May 2023 with 4,761 German-speaking people aged 16 and over, including 1,074 with a migration background, revealed alarming trends. The proportion of respondents who see diversity as an asset has fallen from 63% in 2019 to just 45% in 2025. In contrast, the proportion of those who perceive diversity as a threat rose from 17% to almost 35%. These developments shed clear light on the growing tensions within society and the polarization between proponents and skeptics of diversity.

Regional differences

The study shows that the acceptance of diversity varies greatly from region to region. Hesse and North Rhine-Westphalia are among the front runners, while Thuringia, Saxony and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania are at the lower end of the acceptance scale. While urban centers such as Bremen, Berlin and Hamburg tend to report higher levels of openness to religious diversity, these cities have also experienced an average decline in acceptance of eight points, compared to a general average of five points across the country.

Another interesting point is that the gap between East and West Germany is becoming increasingly smaller. Many West German states have also seen declines in acceptance, suggesting that societal tensions, which increase especially in times of crisis, are also reaching West German terrain. Nevertheless, Bremen is considered a pioneer in the acceptance of religious diversity.

Social polarization

The study identifies three groups that exist within society: “cosmopolitans” (50% of the population), who show high acceptance of diversity; “Protectionists” (21%) who take a negative stance towards diversity; and “diversity skeptics” (30%) who are critical of the topic. This polarization is reflected not only in the general attitude towards diversity, but also in the political connections to parties such as the AfD, which argue strongly against diversity.

Some factors that contribute to the acceptance or rejection of diversity were also highlighted in the research. This shows that individual empathy has a positive influence on acceptance. In contrast, a pronounced wealth protectionism, which is characterized by an unwillingness to share socially generated goods with others, inhibits openness to diversity.

The way forward

Given these alarming trends, the report calls for increased public discussion and education to improve acceptance across society. Education for all is highlighted as a key key to reducing social divisions and promoting a common understanding of diversity. The decline in acceptance of ethnic, religious and sexual diversity should be seen as a wake-up call for all civil society actors.

The challenges Germany faces are complex, but necessary in order to maintain a society based on fairness, tolerance and diversity in the future. Loud Constructor University society describes an urgent need for dialogue and understanding for different perspectives. Those too Bosch Foundation pointed out that the lack of empathy and understanding towards diversity are important barriers. Against this background, the question of how Germany can regain awareness of diversity remains central for the coming years.

In summary, it can be said that the study of World serves as both a warning and an impetus for renewed efforts in the area of ​​diversity. The data not only shows a deterioration in acceptance, but also the urgent need for changes in social discourse.