A survey conducted by Ipsos revealed that 57% of Germans welcome 2026 with optimism and hope, compared to only 42% last year – a 15-point increase, marking the strongest positive shift since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Future researcher Horst Opaschowski from Hamburg explained that this change is not linked to economic developments or personal finances, as 52% of respondents remain worried about their economic situation. Instead, he sees a shift in mindset: “Life under constant crises unleashes positive energies and resilience.”
Opaschowski noted that references to the so-called “German Angst” have become rare, with younger generations showing greater optimism despite ongoing challenges.
Sources - Agencies
