Rising Poverty Risk Affects Over 13 Million People in Germany in 2024

In 2024, Germany saw a significant increase in the number of people at risk of poverty, with approximately 13.3 million individuals affected, representing 16.1% of the population. This is a rise from 15.5% the previous year, according to data from the Federal Statistical Office. The European Union defines poverty risk as earning less than 60% of the average income, which for a single person in 2024 was set at €1,381 net per month. For a family with two adults and two children under 14, the threshold was €3,036.

The statistics reveal that single persons and single-parent households face the highest poverty risk rates at 30.9% and 28.7%, respectively. Among demographic groups, the unemployed are most vulnerable, with a poverty risk rate of 64.9%, followed by other non-employed individuals at 33.8%, and retirees at 19.1%. Furthermore, about 21.2% of the population was at risk of poverty or social exclusion, a measure encompassing severe material deprivation and low labor market participation.

Political and expert opinions vary on defining poverty. While some politicians emphasize inability to afford adequate nutrition as a poverty criterion, others argue that poverty includes lacking access to social participation like buying newspapers or gifts. Experts also differ in their approach, with some setting extreme poverty at 1 euro per day and others focusing on relative deprivation compared to the broader society.

These statistics underscore the growing socioeconomic challenges in Germany, highlighting the need for targeted policies to support vulnerable groups and combat poverty's multidimensional nature.