Ataman: Around 13 Percent of People in Germany Have Discrimination Experience - Germany's discrimination crisis deepens as nine million face unequal treatment

A new study has revealed that over 13% of people in Germany—around nine million adults—experienced discrimination in the past year. The findings, presented by the Antidiskriminierungsstelle des Bundes, highlight persistent inequalities across daily life and work. Ferda Ataman, Germany's anti-discrimination commissioner, has warned that the scale of the problem now threatens social cohesion.

The Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP) surveyed roughly 30,000 people each year, with 5,404 reporting discrimination in 2023 alone. Ethnic origin or racism accounted for 41.9% of cases, making it the most common cause. Gender or gender identity followed at 23.8%.

Discrimination occurred most often when accessing goods and services (40.7%) or in the workplace (39.2%). Nearly one in five affected individuals also reported mistreatment by government agencies, authorities, or police. Ataman stressed that many victims remain silent due to a lack of counselling and unawareness of their legal rights.

The General Equal Treatment Act (AGG), introduced in 2006, currently covers limited areas like employment and housing. However, gaps remain in public spaces, authorities, and policing. Ataman has called for urgent reforms to expand protections and improve support for victims.

The study underscores the widespread nature of discrimination in Germany, particularly against people with immigrant backgrounds, women, and individuals with disabilities. With nine million adults affected, Ataman's push for stronger legal measures and victim support aims to address a growing challenge. The proposed reforms would widen the AGG's scope and provide clearer pathways for those facing inequality.