42nd German Tourism Analysis 2026
Despite economic pressures, social conflicts and a tense general mood, the frequency of travel continues to increase, and more money is being spent than ever before.
Meaning through work or joy in life? A societal shift in direction.
Work as a meaningful life task is losing its significance. More and more people are striving for a balance between self-realization and quality of life. Young people, in particular, are placing greater emphasis on enjoyment and freedom. This is the conclusion of a recent study by the non-profit FOUNDATION FOR FUTURE ISSUES, for which over 2,000 German citizens aged 18 and over were surveyed in a representative sample.
How do citizens view the year 2026?
The fear of societal division has risen significantly, but the objective problems have remained the same. This is the conclusion of the latest study by the non-profit Foundation for Future Issues, for which 2,000 German citizens aged 18 and over were surveyed in a representative sample. While economic pessimism and the loss of trust in politicians have hardly changed, the hope for social cohesion has halved. Consequently, anxiety about the future has also increased considerably.
More than just companions: How pets shape our society
Over 35 million pets live in Germany – they provide support, offer companionship, and shape our daily lives more than we realize. But what does our love for animals say about us as a society? In this episode, find out why more and more people are regularly interacting with animals, how pets help alleviate loneliness and stress, and what developments will change our relationship with them in the future: from insect-based food and digital health trackers to robot dogs and pet-friendly nursing homes.
More than just companions: How pets shape our society
They are emotional anchors, provide structure, and have a positive impact on well-being: Pets have a significant social role in Germany that is often underestimated. The figures show that over 35 million pets live in German households, and their influence on our daily lives and our mental health is enormous. This week's chart explores how pets have become an important part of our lives and what role they might play in the future.
Caring for relatives: When worry becomes a strength
Caring for relatives often goes unnoticed, but is increasingly becoming a pillar of our social system. Almost one in five Germans now regularly performs care work – often unpaid and alongside their job. In light of demographic change, the urgent question arises as to how this service can be recognized and supported through new models in the future.
Caring for relatives: When worry becomes a strength
Caregiving is more than a job – it's a lived responsibility in everyday life. Millions of people regularly look after their relatives, usually quietly and without much fanfare. But how often does this actually happen – and how is caregiving changing in an aging society? In this episode, find out why care work often remains invisible, why women and people in rural areas are particularly likely to step in – and how new ideas, digital tools, and social recognition can strengthen the care system of tomorrow.
How we think about others: Responsibility between self-image and expectations
Almost everyone sees themselves as responsible – yet few believe that others are too. How does this gap between self-image and how others perceive us arise? And what do we actually expect from companies, politicians, and our neighbors? In this episode, find out why our view of others is often too negative, what role media, upbringing, and role models play – and how a change in perspective can lead to more trust, more engagement, and more shared responsibility.
How we think about others: Responsibility between self-image and expectations
German citizens are increasingly skeptical of their willingness to take civic initiative. Currently, only 28 percent agree with the statement that many people are prepared to take action themselves instead of leaving problems to the state. Compared to 2009, when 40 percent held this view, this is a significant decline. This reveals a striking discrepancy between how others perceive and how people assess themselves.
Everyday life with conviction: Where responsibility is truly lived
Many say: Society is becoming more selfish. But the figures show something different – especially in our private lives, we help each other more than ever before. But what exactly do we take responsibility for? And how is engagement changing in our digital everyday lives? In this episode, find out why quiet acts of help are often overlooked, why young people in particular are getting involved – and how responsibility could be organized more flexibly, personally, and collaboratively in the future.
