Insights from the RND Voting Compass: German Perspectives Revealed

Tue 28th Jan, 2025

In a significant initiative coinciding with the upcoming federal elections, over 81,000 individuals participated in a comprehensive survey commissioned by the RedaktionsNetzwerk Deutschland (RND). This survey aimed to gather insights on public sentiment regarding key political issues affecting Germany.

Conducted by 27 regional newspapers, the RND Voting Compass included 38 questions designed to explore public opinions on political, economic, and social matters. The survey, which ran from December 13, 2024, to January 23, 2025, concluded just prior to the intensification of discussions surrounding migration policies.

The results reveal a wealth of information about the participants' economic conditions, political views, and pressing concerns. Notably, a large portion of respondents reported feeling economically stable, with approximately 46.4% indicating full employment. Meanwhile, nearly a third (29.5%) are retired, and around 10% work part-time.

When it comes to income, a majority perceive themselves as financially secure, with 42.7% believing they earn above the average. This perception may be influenced by the relatively high educational backgrounds of the respondents, with nearly 39% holding a university degree and 4.3% possessing a doctorate. In contrast, the overall academic qualification rate in Germany is around 20%.

Despite this economic optimism, concerns about inflation are prevalent among participants. A significant 65.2% indicated that rising food prices weigh heavily on them, while 64.2% expressed similar feelings regarding increased utility costs. Moreover, 44.6% cited taxes and fees as additional financial burdens.

The survey also assessed satisfaction levels with the political system. While 46% reported being satisfied or very satisfied with Germany's democratic processes, a majority of 54.09% expressed dissatisfaction with political decision-making. The respondents largely identified their political stance as centrist, with 48.1% positioning themselves in the middle, 29.8% on the left, and 21.4% on the right.

Education emerged as the foremost concern, with 58.4% emphasizing the need for urgent reforms in this sector. A staggering 77.3% called for reduced school absenteeism, while 68.2% advocated for better career preparation and 55.1% favored smaller class sizes. Furthermore, a significant 70.5% of respondents believe that the federal government should have greater authority in education policy, a stance that contrasts with the current federal structure.

Economic policy was highlighted as another crucial area needing reform, with 53% of participants indicating a desire for changes related to economic stability. Notably, 81.3% pinpointed bureaucratic hurdles as a major challenge for businesses, while 68.2% called for lower energy prices to enhance economic performance. Additionally, nearly half (49%) believe increased investment in education could lead to economic recovery.

Migration remains a pivotal topic, with over 68% of respondents supporting the continued acceptance of individuals fleeing conflict and violence. Furthermore, 61.2% view the immigration of skilled workers as beneficial, and 54.7% justify entry based on political or other forms of persecution, while only 10% advocate for a complete ban on immigration.

When asked which political party they trust to address current challenges, the conservative Union party led with only 23.1% support, followed closely by the Greens at 19% and the Alternative for Germany (AfD) at 18.7%. The Social Democratic Party (SPD) garnered just 10.5% confidence from respondents. Other parties, including the Left and the Free Democrats, received minimal support.

However, a significant concern is reflected in the finding that nearly 20% of participants feel that no political party is capable of resolving the nation's pressing issues.


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