Germany’s Federal Statistical Office in Wiesbaden reported that in 2025, around 13.3 million people were at risk of poverty, representing 16.1% of the population, up from 15.5% in 2024.
The data showed that poverty risk was highest among single-person households (30.9%), single parents (28.7%), and the unemployed (36.9%). Retirees also faced growing vulnerability, with 19.1% at risk.
According to the EU definition, a person is considered at risk of poverty if their income is below 60% of the median. In 2025, this threshold stood at €1,446 per month for individuals living alone and €3,036 for families with two adults and two children under 14.
The Hans Böckler Foundation, close to trade unions, described the figures as a clear failure of Germany’s welfare state institutions, warning of a worrying deterioration in living conditions.
Sources – Agencies
