In 2025, the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency received 13,067 requests for advice related to discrimination. That was 15 percent more than in the previous year and the highest number recorded since data collection began.
Racist Discrimination Was the Most Common Issue
According to the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency, the largest share of inquiries concerned racist discrimination or discrimination based on ethnic origin. A total of 4,571 such inquiries were received, accounting for 43 percent of all cases.
People affected reported, among other things, insults, degrading treatment and discrimination at work, when looking for housing, in the healthcare system and in contact with public authorities. This is particularly relevant for migrants in Germany: discrimination is not always open and obvious, but can also occur in everyday situations — for example, when people are treated worse because of their name, accent, appearance, background or foreign passport.
Other Reasons for Requests for Advice
The second most common reason was discrimination based on a disability or chronic illness. In 2025, a total of 3,015 inquiries were recorded in this area, accounting for 27 percent. Another 2,407 inquiries, or around 22 percent, concerned discrimination based on gender or gender identity.
People also contacted the advice center because of discrimination based on age, religion or belief, sexual identity and other characteristics. One person can also be affected by several forms of discrimination at the same time — for example because of origin, gender and language.
What the New Record High Means
The increase in requests for advice does not automatically mean that discrimination itself has risen by exactly 15 percent. It may also show that more people know their rights and are more likely to seek advice.
At the same time, the figures make clear that discrimination remains a serious problem in Germany. For migrants, the areas of work, housing, healthcare and contact with authorities are particularly important. Discrimination in these areas can have direct consequences for everyday life — for example when it comes to job opportunities, finding an apartment or access to medical care and support.
Where People Affected Can Get Help
People who experience discrimination can contact the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency. The agency provides advice, among other things, in cases where people are disadvantaged because of their origin, racist attributions, gender, religion, disability, age or sexual identity.
Seeking advice can be useful when discrimination occurs at work, when looking for housing, in the healthcare system, when accessing services or in other important areas of life. The Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency can explain what rights apply in a specific case and what next steps are possible.
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