Ataman: Around 13 Percent of People in Germany Have Discrimination Experience - Over 13% of Germans report facing discrimination in daily life or work

Over 13% of people in Germany have faced discrimination in daily life or at work, according to a new study. The findings come from research conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, covering May 2021 to January 2023. Federal Anti-Discrimination Commissioner Ferda Ataman has warned that the problem threatens social cohesion and demands urgent action.

The study, based on annual surveys of around 30,000 people, found that 5,404 individuals reported discrimination in 2023 alone. This translates to roughly nine million adults affected nationwide. The most frequent grounds for bias were ethnic origin, gender, religion, age, and disability.

Public bodies—including government agencies, police, and schools—were often identified as responsible. Discrimination most commonly occurred in access to goods and services, workplaces, healthcare, and housing. Groups hit hardest include people with immigrant backgrounds, Muslims, women (especially young and low-income), and those with disabilities.

Ataman has called for immediate reforms to the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG), as promised in the coalition agreement. She also pushed for better victim support, noting that many incidents happen in unprotected public spaces like streets or shops.

The study highlights a widespread issue affecting millions across Germany. Ataman's proposed reforms aim to strengthen legal protections and expand counselling for victims. Without changes, discrimination risks further undermining trust in public institutions and social stability.