Survey on democracy in companies: Polarization is affecting the working atmosphere in German companies

Companies in Germany value democracy as the basis for economic success, but see it under pressure. Above all, the loss of trust in institutions, social polarization and economic weakness are causing concerns for companies, according to a survey by the Bertelsmann Foundationthe Institute of German Economics (IW) and the University of St. Gallen among over 900 companies.

Polarization in society in particular is noticeable in around 30 percent of companies and is putting a strain on it Working atmosphere. More than 90 percent of those surveyed also perceived loss of trust as a danger. At the same time, 93 percent see democracy as an important factor for Germany as a location, with the advantages of the rule of law, planning security and entrepreneurial freedom.

“Social tensions don’t stop at the factory gates,” said Dominik Hierlemann from the Bertelsmann Foundation. »But the vast majority of companies can handle it well. They stabilize democracy,” he continued.

According to the study, most companies are already committed, but mostly internally. More than half would have anchored democratic values ​​in their corporate mission statement. The study says that the fact that they don’t do more is less due to fear of headwinds than to insufficient budget and doubts about the impact. “The willingness to commit to democracy is there,” said Matthias Diermeier from the IW. »What is often missing is time, resources and clarity about what is actually effective in everyday life.«

This article will continue to be updated.