Overview

• According to the Polarisationsbarometer, 81.5% of respondents say German society is split, with only 7% perceiving no division.
• The study finds the highest combined ideological and affective polarization on climate protection measures, migration, and support for Ukraine, with climate policy singled out as the biggest splitting issue.
• On migration, two-thirds favor further restricting general immigration while more than 60% support easing entry for skilled workers, indicating a pragmatic divide.
• A modest majority backs increased defense spending to secure peace in Europe and just over half support aid to Ukraine, while roughly 14% strongly oppose Ukraine assistance and favor rapprochement with Russia.
• Views on climate measures are nearly evenly split—41.6% say current policies do not go far enough and 39.6% see them as too extensive—with more people prioritizing economic growth over stricter climate action.