30 Years On, Germans Divided Over Reunification Success
Three decades after German reunification, a new survey reveals a mixed picture of unity. While some progress has been made, deep divisions persist, particularly among older generations and in the former East Germany.
The survey, conducted 35 years after reunification, found that only 35 percent of respondents feel that East and West Germany have largely grown together into one people. This marks a decline since 2019, when the sense of community between the two regions began to decrease. A majority, 61 percent, still perceive dividing lines between the former East and West.
The sentiment varies greatly among age groups. Among young people aged 14 to 29, 47 percent feel that the two parts have largely merged, while 52 percent do not. This is notable, as many young people from West Germany do not strongly identify with the label 'West German,' suggesting a less clear perception of reunification's integration. In East Germany, 75 percent of respondents still feel that dividing lines prevail. In contrast, the 60 plus generation is even more divided, with 25 percent considering reunification successful and 70 percent seeing dividing lines.
Despite the persisting divisions, 85 percent of respondents consider it important or very important to continue dealing with the time of the GDR and the SED dictatorship. This indicates a broad consensus on the need to address the past to move forward.
The survey underscores the complex nature of German reunification, with significant progress made but deep-seated divisions remaining. While younger generations show a more united outlook, older generations and those in the former East Germany continue to feel the impact of the past. The importance placed on continuing to address the legacy of the GDR and the SED dictatorship suggests a collective commitment to working through these challenges.
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