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New ‘Mitte’ Study Finds Falling Trust in Democracy as Hard-Right Core Shrinks

The biennial survey released Nov. 6 reports waning hardcore extremism alongside rising distrust of institutions.

Overview

  • Only about 52% say Germany’s democracy works well, with distrust of state institutions at 21.5% and doubts about correct elections at 18.2%, roughly triple the 2021 level.
  • A large majority still backs democratic norms, with 79% calling themselves convinced democrats and 51% willing to personally act to protect democracy.
  • The share with a clearly right‑extremist worldview has fallen to 3.3% from around 8% in 2022/23, but about one‑fifth remain ambivalent toward nationalist and extremist statements.
  • Authoritarian leanings persist as 15% endorse the idea of a leader ruling with a strong hand, and 7% of 18–34‑year‑olds fit the right‑extremist profile.
  • Perception of the climate crisis as a major threat has dropped to 56%, and researchers urge expanded political education and stronger social infrastructure to bolster democratic resilience.