North Rhine-Westphalia Launches Comprehensive Plan to Combat Loneliness

The state introduces 100 targeted measures to address loneliness, with a focus on children and youth.

North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) has introduced Germany's first state-level action plan to address loneliness, titled 'Du+Wir=Eins – Nordrhein-Westfalen gegen Einsamkeit.'
The plan includes 100 measures spanning all government ministries, aiming to destigmatize loneliness and provide tools for prevention and intervention.
Key initiatives include the creation of an online platform, an annual statewide action day, and expanded support services in schools, universities, job centers, and police departments.
A significant focus is placed on children and adolescents, with efforts to strengthen social skills, media literacy, and community connections through youth programs.
NRW Premier Hendrik Wüst emphasized the societal importance of reintegrating isolated individuals and preventing long-term loneliness from taking root in younger generations.