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New year, new hope: Illertissers are optimistic about 2026!
Many people in the Neu-Ulm district are optimistic about 2026. Surveys show different expectations and concerns among citizens.
New year, new hope: Illertissers are optimistic about 2026!
The turn of the year has always been associated with change and new hopes. This is also the case this year, when many people take the opportunity to leave personal sadness or disappointments behind them. A look at the surveys shows: January is seen as an opportunity for a fresh start. Hermann Hesse aptly summarized this feeling in his famous poem “Stages”: “And there is magic in every beginning.” But what is really the state of mind of people in Germany?
A recent survey reports that 57 percent of Germans are optimistic about the coming year. This represents an increase of 15 percentage points compared to last year, when only 42 percent were in favor of some bright spots ahead. This positive trend, according to futurologist Horst Opaschowski, is remarkable because it has not been observed since Corona. Excitingly, 52 percent still express concerns about their economic situation, showing that optimism is not directly linked to the current economic situation. Rather, Opaschowski suspects a change in mentality, as Germans have gradually gotten used to the challenges that the last few years have brought with them.
Young generation looks upwards
The perspective has changed significantly in recent years, particularly among younger people. Surveys show that 75 percent of 14 to 24 year olds are optimistic about the future, whereas last year only 49 percent of this age group had similar views. This could indicate that despite pressing issues such as climate change and geopolitical crises, the ability to deal constructively is growing.
The results of the latest Shell youth study are exciting, as they take a closer look at the worldview, values and goals of young people. According to this study, 55 percent of young people view the opportunities that the state and society offer them positively. In addition, 75 percent show a general satisfaction with democracy, which sheds a positive light on young people's political participation despite the much-discussed challenges.
Fears and challenges of young people
Despite the positive mood, the concerns cannot be overlooked. 81 percent of young people are afraid of war, which is a significant increase compared to a few years ago. Fear of poverty is also high at 67 percent, while only a third are affected by unemployment - a historic low.
It is a sign of the times that younger people not only have to deal with their fears, but also become increasingly informed and involved. Access to information about politics has increased significantly among young people and they are showing an active interest in social issues. The Shell study also shows that trust in states and democracy remains stable, despite the challenges our society faces.
Uncertainty for 2026 remains despite positive sentiment and a perceived willingness to change. According to another survey, 60 percent of German citizens are surprisingly skeptical about the coming year. Only 22 percent of people believe in social cohesion.
As the surveys show, the path to the future for many people, and especially for young people, is characterized by a colorful mix of optimism and worries. One thing is certain: Even if there are challenges, the willingness to open up to new opportunities and face the challenges remains high. The magic of new beginnings will also be felt in 2026.