A recent survey indicates widespread public doubt regarding the ability of the German federal government to enact meaningful reforms to the nation’s social security systems. Conducted by Forsa for RTL and ntv television stations between September 19th and 22nd, 2025, the poll examined the perceptions of 1,000 participants.
The findings reveal that only 23 percent of respondents believe the coalition government, comprised of the Union (CDU/CSU) and the SPD, will be successful in implementing fundamental changes within the social security framework. A significant majority, 74 percent, expressed skepticism and believe such reforms are unlikely to be achieved.
This lack of confidence extends even within the base of the governing parties. Just 38 percent of CDU/CSU supporters expressed belief in the coalition’s reform capabilities, while 35 percent of SPD voters share that perspective. Skepticism is even more prevalent among supporters of the Green Party (23 percent), the Left Party (20 percent) and the AfD (5 percent).
The survey provides a snapshot of public sentiment at a time when discussions surrounding the future of Germany’s social security architecture remain a key political topic.