Thuringia Monitor 2024: Satisfaction with Democracy Declines Amidst Rising Xenophobia
The latest Thuringia Monitor, presented in Erfurt by Jena-based political scientist Marion Reiser, reveals a concerning trend: a majority of residents in Thuringia are dissatisfied with the practical implementation of democracy. According to the study, commissioned annually by the State Chancellery and conducted by researchers at Friedrich Schiller University Jena, only 43% of those surveyed expressed satisfaction with how democracy functions in reality. This figure represents a further decline of two percentage points compared to the 45% recorded in 2023, signaling a growing disillusionment with the democratic process.
Despite this decline in satisfaction with democratic implementation, support for the fundamental concept of democracy remains strong. Nearly nine out of ten Thuringians, or 88%, continue to believe that democracy is "the best of all forms of government." This unwavering support, consistent with the previous year’s findings, indicates a clear distinction between the ideal of democracy and its perceived shortcomings in practice. The enduring commitment to democratic ideals suggests that the dissatisfaction stems not from a rejection of democracy itself, but rather from specific concerns about its execution and effectiveness in addressing the needs and concerns of the population.
The Thuringia Monitor, a long-standing annual survey initiated in 2000, delves into the political attitudes of the people of Thuringia. It serves as a crucial tool for understanding the evolving socio-political landscape of the state and identifying emerging trends in public opinion. The survey encompasses a broad range of topics, including political engagement, trust in institutions, and attitudes towards social issues.
In addition to gauging overall satisfaction with democracy, the Thuringia Monitor also assesses the prevalence of extremist ideologies. The 2024 edition reveals troubling findings in this area. The study indicates that 20% of respondents hold right-wing extremist views. Moreover, neo-National Socialist attitudes, characterized by tendencies to downplay the atrocities of the Nazi regime, embrace social Darwinism, harbor anti-Semitic sentiments, and advocate for dictatorial forms of governance, are present among 7% of those surveyed. This figure represents a slight increase compared to the preceding three years, suggesting a gradual normalization or resurgence of such ideologies within the state.
Perhaps the most alarming finding of the 2024 Thuringia Monitor is the continued rise in ethno-centric attitudes. For the third consecutive year, the survey documents an increase in ethno-centrism, reaching a concerning level of 41%. The study’s summary highlights a significant surge in the endorsement of xenophobic statements. A striking 63% of respondents agreed with the statement that "the Federal Republic is dangerously overrun by the many foreigners." This widespread agreement reflects a growing sense of unease and resentment towards immigrants and refugees within the Thuringian population.
The rise in xenophobic sentiment is particularly concerning in light of recent political developments in Thuringia. The state has witnessed the increasing popularity of right-wing populist parties, which often exploit anxieties about immigration and cultural change to gain political support. The Thuringia Monitor’s findings suggest that these parties are tapping into a reservoir of pre-existing prejudices and anxieties within the population.
The implications of the Thuringia Monitor’s findings are far-reaching. The declining satisfaction with democratic implementation, coupled with the rise in right-wing extremism, neo-National Socialist attitudes, and ethno-centrism, paints a worrying picture of the state’s socio-political climate. The findings underscore the urgent need for concerted efforts to address the root causes of these trends.
Addressing the decline in satisfaction with democracy requires a multi-faceted approach. It is crucial to strengthen democratic institutions, promote civic engagement, and ensure that the government is responsive to the needs and concerns of its citizens. This includes fostering greater transparency and accountability in government, promoting inclusive decision-making processes, and investing in education and programs that promote democratic values and principles.
Combating right-wing extremism, neo-National Socialist attitudes, and ethno-centrism requires a comprehensive strategy that combines education, prevention, and law enforcement. This includes providing educational resources that counter extremist ideologies, supporting community initiatives that promote tolerance and understanding, and prosecuting hate crimes and other forms of extremist violence. It is also essential to address the underlying social and economic factors that can contribute to radicalization, such as poverty, unemployment, and social exclusion.
The Thuringia Monitor serves as a valuable tool for policymakers, civil society organizations, and researchers seeking to understand and address the challenges facing the state. By providing a comprehensive and nuanced assessment of public opinion, the Monitor can inform the development of effective policies and programs that promote democracy, combat extremism, and foster social cohesion. The trends identified in the Monitor should serve as a wake-up call to all those who are committed to upholding democratic values and protecting the rights and freedoms of all members of society. The fight against extremism and xenophobia requires a collective effort from all sectors of society, including government, civil society, and the media. Only through sustained and coordinated action can we hope to reverse the alarming trends identified in the Thuringia Monitor and build a more inclusive and democratic society.
