Satisfaction with Germany’s federal government has plunged to unprecedented lows, according to a survey published on Wednesday, April 2nd.
The latest ARD “Deutschlandtrend” report shows that only 15% of citizens say they are satisfied with the work of the black-red coalition led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, a drop of ten points from the previous month. Conversely, 84% express dissatisfaction with the federal government.
Personal approval ratings for key coalition figures have also fallen sharply. Merz, who is both Chancellor and CDU chairman, now has a 21% approval rating, down eight points. SPD leaders experienced even steeper declines: Lars Klingbeil’s rating dropped 15 points to 18%, while Bärbel Bas fell ten points to 15%.
CSU chairman Markus Söder remains the highest-rated government leader at 27%, despite a six-point drop.
Economic pressures are driving public frustration, with 66% of respondents citing high taxes and social security contributions as burdensome. Only 28% consider the level appropriate, while 1% say it is too low.
Younger Germans feel the strain most acutely, with 72% of those aged 18 to 34 complaining of excessive taxes, compared with 56% of seniors over 65. Among AfD supporters, 87% believe the financial burden is too high. Greens voters are the only group where two-thirds consider their contribution reasonable.
The figures come as a recent survey by the INSA institute reflects a clear shift in German public opinion. Just 40% of Germans now oppose CDU or CSU working with Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) when policy positions align, while 32% support such cooperation and 13% remain indifferent.
