87% back democracy, but almost two-thirds are unhappy with how it works in Germany

An ARD survey found that 87% consider democracy a good form of government, but almost two-thirds are dissatisfied with how it works in Germany. Infratest dimap surveyed 2,281 German-speaking people aged 16 and over from October 19 to 27, 2026.

Asked about the greatest threat to democracy, 34% named right-wing extremism and 16% cited what they saw as dysfunctional politics and public administration. Four in five believe parliamentary elections are free and fair, but only half think politicians ensure people’s social security. Seven in ten respondents support direct votes at the federal level on certain political issues.