Germany’s reunification at 35: Unity in values, but divides linger on

Three decades after the Wall fell, younger Germans bridge old divides—yet generational clashes over Europe and migration still shape the nation. What’s next?

, and Administrator

2025 December 28 . 4:15 AM

1 min read

In this picture we can see screenshot of the Facebook page. On the top we can see some six... — In this picture we can see screenshot of the Facebook page. On the top we can see some six photograph of men and women. On the left side there are some quotes and matter.

Germany’s reunification at 35: Unity in values, but divides linger on

Germany marked 35 years since reunification on 3 October, yet cultural unity remains unfinished. The annual Deutschland-Monitor study tracks political and social attitudes across the country, revealing both shared values and persistent divides. While younger generations show growing alignment, older eastern Germans still hold distinct views on key issues.

The study highlights broad agreement on core principles like gender equality, equal opportunities, and religious tolerance. Most Germans also reject political extremism and support social justice, with a shared belief in hard work as a path to success. Even welfare state expectations have converged, as western attitudes shift closer to those in the east.

Yet deep differences emerge on Europe, the environment, and immigration. Younger Germans—those born after 1990—tend to be strongly pro-European, prioritise climate action, and favour controlled immigration with an emphasis on integration and humanitarian responsibility. Older eastern Germans, however, remain more sceptical of both climate policies and immigration. The findings come as Germany celebrates its national unity day, commemorating the fall of the Berlin Wall and the formal reunification of East and West in 1990. While progress has been made, the study shows that full cultural cohesion is still evolving.

The Deutschland-Monitor reveals a country where younger generations increasingly share values across regions. But generational and regional gaps persist, particularly on Europe, climate, and migration. As Germany reflects on 35 years of unity, the study underscores both the progress made and the challenges that remain.