Nearly 2 million highly educated Germans at risk of poverty
Deutsche Welle
February 20, 2026
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Nearly 1.9 million highly educated Germans with university-level qualifications are at risk of poverty in 2025, marking an increase of 350,000 compared to 2022. This concerning trend was revealed by Germany's official statistics office in response to a request from the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW). Despite a growing number of graduates—now totaling 21 million nationwide—the unemployment rate among academics has risen to 3.3%, up from 2.2% three years earlier. This decline and rising poverty now affect all levels of education, according to Sahra Wagenknecht, founder of the BSW, who urged policymakers to revive the economy and promote social mobility through targeted measures.
The figures highlight a worrying disconnect between educational attainment and economic stability in Germany. While the number of graduates has surged, many are unable to secure well-paying jobs, leaving them vulnerable to poverty. Under Germany's definition, anyone earning less than 60% of the median income is considered at risk of poverty. In 2024, this threshold equated to €1,446 per month for a single adult. The situation is particularly dire for those with lower or medium levels of education: out of 14.3 million individuals in this group, approximately 4.1 million were at risk of poverty in 2025.
This trend underscores broader challenges facing Germany's economy and social structure. While education was once seen as a ticket to upward mobility, the current data suggests that even highly educated individuals are struggling to achieve financial stability. The rise in unemployment among academics and the growing disparity between educational attainment and economic outcomes point to deeper systemic issues. Experts warn that this trend could have long-term consequences for Germany's workforce, innovation potential, and social cohesion.
The situation is particularly concerning given the global context of rising inequality and economic uncertainty. For readers interested in global trends, this story highlights the importance of addressing economic disparities and ensuring that education remains a pathway to opportunity rather than financial instability. As policymakers grapple with these challenges, the focus will likely shift toward creating more equitable job opportunities and strengthening social
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/20/2026