Record Volunteer Turnout for 2025 German Federal Election

Increased stipends and heightened political interest drive a surge in election helpers across German municipalities.

Many cities in Germany, including Dortmund, Cologne, and Bielefeld, report having more election volunteers than needed for the upcoming Bundestag election.
A survey of 30 municipalities in North Rhine-Westphalia found that over three-quarters had already filled all election helper positions, with half citing higher-than-usual interest.
Increased 'Erfrischungsgeld' (refreshment money) is a key factor, with cities like Dortmund doubling stipends to €100 for polling station assistants and €80 for counting mail-in ballots.
Smaller cities, such as Kleve and Essen, also increased payments, while Bielefeld introduced a bonus program for repeat volunteers, further boosting participation.
Officials express optimism about the strong civic engagement, with some municipalities encouraging excess volunteers to consider helping in future elections.