Deep Divides in Germany Over Ukraine Aid and Immigration Policies Revealed by New Survey
A new survey exposes sharp divisions in Germany over Ukraine aid, immigration policies, and defense spending, emphasizing demographic and political splits.
Key details
- 54% of Germans support continued aid to Ukraine while 29% favor closer ties with Russia, reflecting increased polarization.
- 65% support immigration restrictions, but 56% favor easing rules for skilled workers, showing nuanced attitudes toward immigration.
- 52% of respondents support increased military spending, paralleling divisions over Ukraine aid.
- Political supporters of AfD and Greens demonstrate stronger intolerance toward opposing views compared to other parties.
A recent study by the Mercator Forum for Migration and Democracy (MIDEM), published on November 10, 2026, reveals significant polarization in German public opinion, notably regarding support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. The survey, termed the 'Polarization Barometer' and conducted in March 2026 among 2,785 adults, found that 54% of Germans support continuing aid to Ukraine, whereas nearly 29% favor improving relations with Russia, marking a rise from 13.7% to 17.3% on this stance. This reflects a growing divide on foreign policy issues related to the war.
The study also examined attitudes on immigration and military spending, highlighting that 65% of respondents support imposing restrictions on immigration, while only 17.3% advocate for easier immigration pathways overall. Notably, 56% endorse easing immigration rules specifically for skilled workers—a slight decline from 61% the previous year. On military matters, 52% of Germans favor increased defense spending, mirroring divisions similar to those on Ukraine aid.
Differences in opinion also align with political affiliations and demographics. Supporters of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) and the Greens exhibit significant affective polarization, showing greater intolerance toward opposing views compared to CDU/CSU, SPD, or Left Party supporters. Additionally, men, seniors over 70, and individuals with lower educational attainment are more likely to harbor negative views of dissenting opinions.
The findings underscore increasing societal tensions focused on Germany’s role in the Ukraine conflict and immigration policy debates, with the research noting that, despite these polarizations, overall affective polarization concerning immigration and climate change has not significantly escalated since 2025.
These insights reveal the nuanced landscape of public opinion in Germany, highlighting challenges for policymakers navigating support for Ukraine, immigration reforms, and military investment amidst a divided electorate.
Source articles (2)
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sueddeutsche.de Nov 10, 2026
„Polarisierungsbarometer“ - Ukraine-Hilfe spaltet Deutschland mehr als Zuwanderung - Politik - SZ.de
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ardmediathek.de Nov 10, 2026
Arena – Ihre Fragen an die Politik - Arena · Ihre Fragen an Steffen Bilger - hier anschauen