A significant decline in public approval has shaken Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, according to a newly released Forsa poll commissioned by “Der Stern” magazine. The survey, conducted November 6th and 7th, 2025, reveals that only 40% of Germans express satisfaction with the minister, a sharp drop of eleven percentage points since July. Simultaneously, a concerning 49% now voice dissatisfaction, a rise of nine percentage points within the same timeframe.
The erosion of public support follows a week of intense criticism directed at Wadephul’s controversial statements regarding the potential return of refugees to Syria. While the minister retains a degree of backing, particularly within his own conservative bloc – 60% of CDU/CSU voters still express approval despite a 15-point decline – the broader picture highlights a growing disconnect.
Remarkably, Wadephul continues to command surprising levels of approval from traditionally opposing factions. A substantial 60% of SPD voters and 53% of Green Party supporters remain satisfied with his performance. This unexpected support, however, masks deeper political fissures. The Left party exhibits overwhelming disapproval (56%) and a staggering 81% of AfD supporters express outright dissatisfaction.
The increased public awareness surrounding Wadephul’s policies, reflected in a 15-point jump in his recognition rate to 76%, seems to have triggered a reevaluation of his leadership. The findings raise critical questions concerning the Foreign Minister’s approach to complex geopolitical issues, particularly concerning migration and humanitarian crises. While acknowledging his continued support within his own party and surprising resonance with certain opposition elements, the substantial drop in overall approval points to a growing challenge for the government and necessitates a critical introspection on the direction of German foreign policy. The data underscores the sensitivity surrounding refugee policies and the increasing politicization of humanitarian issues within the German electorate.