A recent survey conducted by Forsa for Stern, RTL and n-tv reveals a complex picture of public trust in German institutions, highlighting a deeply entrenched crisis of confidence in the political sphere despite relatively stable faith in core pillars of society. While physicians maintain their position as the most trusted professionals, commanding 81% confidence – consistent with last year – the data exposes a concerning trend regarding political accountability and judicial impartiality.
The enduring respect for doctors underscores their crucial role in German society, but the slight erosion of trust in the Federal Constitutional Court, now standing at 76% after a two-point decline, is significant. This dip is likely linked to the contentious debate surrounding judicial appointments earlier in the year, raising questions about the court’s perceived independence and the politicization of its selection process. Similarly, a one-point reduction in confidence for the general courts, now at 69%, suggests a growing unease about the efficacy and fairness of the legal system.
Universities continue to command a respectable 75% trust rating, a mark of stability within the nation’s academic landscape. However, the stark contrast with the dismal standing of political parties offers a harsh assessment of the country’s political class. Currently, only 16% of Germans express confidence in political parties – a marginal one-point increase from the previous year, yet representing a precipitous nine-point decline since 2020. This protracted slump signals a widespread disillusionment with established political actors and potentially reflects deeper anxieties about governance and representation.
The survey, based on responses from 4,025 individuals collected between December 3rd and 12th, 2025, reflects a wider trend of institutional skepticism. Low trust continues to plague social media platforms and advertising agencies (3% each) and the perception of Islam remains low at 7%, albeit a one-point increase. A slight improvement, with a 3% rise, is visible for the Catholic Church, indicating a gradual effort to rebuild trust following past controversies.
The figures are a clear warning sign for German policymakers, indicating a need for profound engagement with the public and a renewed commitment to transparency, integrity and democratic accountability. The resilience of trust in institutions like the judiciary and medical profession underscores the potential for rebuilding faith in other sectors, but the ongoing crisis of confidence in political parties demands urgent and decisive action.