Germans have shown increased concern about safety in public areas since the migrant crisis that unfolded in 2015.
A recent survey, the Deutschlandtrend, indicates that almost half of German voters feel personally uneasy about their safety when in public. This poll, conducted by Infratest Dimap among 1,300 voters from November 3 to 5, highlights a significant rise in fear.
Specifically, 48% of respondents express anxiety in places like parks, squares, and on public transportation. This marks an increase of nearly 100% over the past ten years, according to the pollster’s findings.
Women appear more worried about their safety, with 53% expressing concern, compared to 43% of men. Interestingly, while worries about theft and verbal harassment are prevalent, fears regarding sexual assault, murder, and terrorism seem less common.
In commentary, the German publication die welt observed that the current perceptions of safety starkly contrast with those from 2015, suggesting a significant darkening of public sentiment over the decade.
Government statistics show involvement of migrants in at least 2.8 million crimes in Germany since 2015, although this figure might not capture the full scope as it excludes certain categories of crimes tied to immigration status.
This surge in public anxiety aligns with the large influx of migrants into Germany that occurred after former Chancellor Angela Merkel opened the borders to asylum seekers from various regions a decade ago.
The consequences of the open border policy have bolstered the populist party Alternative for Germany (AfD), which advocates for stricter immigration controls.
The survey reveals that 47% of participants support the AfD’s position on limiting foreign and refugee intake compared to other parties. Furthermore, 52% believe that the AfD is more in tune with public feelings about safety than other political groups.
In a separate analysis, the RTL/NTV trend barometer shows the AfD leading with 26% support among voters, widening its lead over Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s centrist CDU/CSU, while third-place Social Democrats sit at 14%.
