The vast majority of young people living in Germany do not believe that getting involved in politics can make a difference, according to a poll released today.

The poll involved 2,500 respondents, aged 16 to 30. It found that one in five believe that what makes a difference is putting in personal effort for a particular cause. The poll was conducted by the research institute Verian on behalf of the Bertelsmann Foundation.

Some 38% expressed a lack of confidence in politics and another 1/3 of respondents said they partly agreed.

Half of respondents see insufficient opportunities for youth participation in politics beyond elections.

Fewer than one in ten think political parties are open to young people’s ideas, while only 8% believe that politics takes their concerns seriously.

The authors of the poll found that there is substantial interest among young people in social and political issues, with nearly two-thirds of respondents wanting more information on some socio-political issues.

Areas cited by respondents included war and peace, health, inflation and education.