23.09.2024
Children and young people in Germany are growing up in more diverse circumstances than ever before, united by a desire for security and guidance – this is shown in the 17th Children and Youth Report, which Federal Minister for Family Affairs Lisa Paus presented together with experts. The report provides a comprehensive picture of the situation of the younger generation and the state of child and youth welfare services in Germany.
"Confidence needs a foundation"
Federal Youth Minister Lisa Paus:
"Confidence needs a foundation. That's why it's so important that young people encounter trustworthy people and structures early on – for example, caring educators, schools that teach more than just academic subjects, or open youth clubs. They need people who can handle crises and support them. This is a clear mandate from the Child and Youth Report for those responsible at all levels of government.".
It is important to me that all young people know about and can use such opportunities – regardless of where their parents come from or whether they live in the countryside or in the city. And: Young people must be able to rely on their rights and voices carrying weight in political and social decisions. That is why I am working on a National Action Plan that shows what binding and effective child and youth participation can look like in our country
Safety and orientation are necessary for a healthy upbringing
Around 22 million children, teenagers, and young adults currently live in Germany. The report shows that their generation is more diverse than ever before. But they all share one thing in common: security and guidance are essential for a good upbringing. However, this is currently characterized by overlapping challenges such as war, climate change, global refugee migration, the aftermath of the pandemic, as well as a shortage of skilled workers and the pressure on democracy.
Confidence, yes, but trust in the future is declining
Most young people in Germany look to the coming years with optimism. However, their confidence in the future has declined. They are affected to varying degrees by the current crises – depending on the conditions under which they grow up and the affiliations and attributions they have.
Society possesses a wide range of resources for the younger generation. However, it is failing to make these resources equally accessible to all children, adolescents, and young adults. The reporting commission believes that policymakers and society are called upon to give greater consideration to the needs of young people and future generations.
Strong child and youth welfare services are indispensable
The report emphasizes that young people need trustworthy support systems, especially in difficult times. A strong child and youth welfare system is essential for this. This encompasses many areas of work and responsibilities – such as childcare in daycare centers and schools, youth centers, youth associations, international youth exchange programs, youth social work, and the diverse services provided by local youth welfare offices.
Prof. Dr. Karin Böllert, Chair of the Reporting Committee:
"Despite the exceptional circumstances of recent years, child and youth welfare services are functioning, but are increasingly reaching their limits. Confidence and trust are essential for a healthy upbringing. If child and youth welfare services are to continue contributing to this, they must be reliable and improve even further."
In preparing the report, the reporting commission placed great emphasis on the extensive participation of young people. In total, it involved approximately 5,400 young people between the ages of five and 27 on various issues.
Obligation of the Federal Government
According to Section 84 of the German Social Code, Book VIII (SGB VIII), the Federal Government is obligated to submit a report on children and youth to the German Bundestag and the Bundesrat in each legislative period and to comment on it. An independent commission of experts is commissioned to prepare the report. The Federal Government then forwards the report, along with its statement, to the Bundestag and the Bundesrat.