A recent Allensbach Institute study, commissioned by the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, reveals a complex public perception of the German civil service and the institution of tenured public servants (Beamte). The study, conducted through in-person interviews between September 5th and 17th, 2025, surveyed 1,013 individuals and highlights a growing sentiment regarding the privileges enjoyed by civil servants.
Nearly four-fifths (79% and 78%) of the German population believe a more restrictive approach should be taken regarding new appointments to the civil service. Interestingly, a slight majority (52%) of civil servants themselves acknowledge that their positions offer favorable conditions.
However, support softens considerably when considering specific policy changes. A resounding 86% of the public advocate for the obligation of civil servants to contribute to the pension fund, while 80% believe they should be required to pay into unemployment insurance. These proposals, however, face strong opposition from within the civil service itself. Regarding the limitation of the right to strike, a degree of consensus exists, with 49% of civil servants and 52% of the general population supporting the current prohibition.
Overall, the public expresses a fundamental skepticism about the traditional concept of the civil service. Only 28% consider the system modern, while 43% view it as outdated. Consequently, 41% believe it would be possible to replace civil servants entirely with public employees.
Despite this widespread questioning of the traditional model, strong support persists for retaining the tenured status of personnel crucial for internal and external security. A substantial majority supports the continued tenured status of police officers (84%), judges (77%), prosecutors (70%), customs officials (58%) and military personnel (57%).
A proposal to selectively appoint civil servants enjoys broad support, both among the general public (78% in favor, 7% opposed) and, to a lesser extent, among those already serving (46% in favor, 27% opposed).
