Germans’ sense of security in public spaces hits record low in new poll

From confidence to caution: Why half of Germans no longer feel safe in public. The numbers expose deep divides by gender and political allegiance.

, and Administrator

2025 November 6 . 9:02 PM

1 min read

In this image, I can see the cars on the road. I can see four people standing. These are the... — In this image, I can see the cars on the road. I can see four people standing. These are the buildings with the windows. I can see the trees. I think these are the emergency warning triangle.

Poll: Security Feeling in Germany Declines - Germans’ sense of security in public spaces hits record low in new poll

Germans' sense of security in public spaces has declined, with only half feeling safe, according to a recent poll. This marks a significant drop from 2017, when three-quarters reported feeling secure. Women and supporters of the AfD party feel particularly unsafe.

The ARD 'Deutschland poll' reveals a stark decrease in Germans' feelings of safety in public spaces. In 2017, 75% felt secure, but this has plummeted to 50% in the latest survey. Women are more likely to feel unsafe, with only 42% reporting feeling very or fairly safe, compared to 58% of men.

Voters for the Greens remain the most secure, with 81% feeling safe. Conversely, 79% of AfD supporters do not feel safe. A slim majority, 52%, believes the AfD understands the growing insecurity better, though it's unclear which party is perceived to have the better grasp on security concerns overall.

Crime statistics show a mixed picture. While overall criminal offenses fell by 1.7%, crimes against personal freedom rose by 5.3%. Notably, reports of sexualized violence increased by 9.3%. Germans' fears reflect these trends, with 52% worried about theft and 48% expecting verbal abuse or harassment in public spaces.

The decline in Germans' feelings of safety in public spaces is concerning, with women and AfD supporters particularly affected. While crime rates are mixed, fears of theft and harassment are widespread. Understanding and addressing these security concerns will be crucial for political parties in the coming months.