Published on July 17, 2025
Loneliness is emerging as one of Germany’s most pressing social challenges today. Once assumed to primarily affect older adults, recent data paints a much broader — and more alarming — picture. Loneliness is on the rise across all age groups, especially among young people and migrants. In response, grassroots community initiatives like the Social Integration Hub by Horizon Resource Network are stepping up to reconnect people, rebuild social trust, and foster healthier, more resilient communities.
- The Loneliness Epidemic in Germany
Over the past decade, feelings of loneliness have intensified across Germany — a trend accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the Federal Institute for Population Research (BiB), while about 14–17% of adults reported feeling lonely before 2020, this figure spiked to over 40% during the pandemic. Even post-lockdown, loneliness remains high, with approximately 36% of adults reporting persistent feelings of isolation in 2022–23.
A recent study from Techniker Krankenkasse found that 60% of Germans feel lonely at least occasionally. Among young adults aged 18–39, 68% reported experiencing loneliness, with over a third finding it a serious burden.
- Key Risk Groups:
-
Young adults under 30
-
Single parents and people living alone
-
Migrants and people with a non-German background
-
Individuals with low income or unemployment
-
People with physical or mental health challenges
-
- Causes of Loneliness
The reasons for rising loneliness are complex and interconnected. They include:
-
-
Life transitions like moving to a new city or changing jobs
-
Loss of loved ones or separation from family
-
Cultural and language barriers, especially for migrants
-
Digital lifestyles that reduce real-life interaction
-
Economic hardship, which limits social participation
-
- The Consequences of Loneliness
Loneliness is more than just a sad feeling — it’s a serious public health issue. Research links chronic loneliness to:
-
-
Depression, anxiety, and poor sleep
-
Increased risk of heart disease and a weakened immune system
-
Cognitive decline and dementia
-
Reduced life expectancy
-
Social withdrawal and reduced democratic engagement
-
According to the German government’s 2023 “Strategy to Counter Loneliness“, loneliness can also erode social cohesion, reduce civic participation, and increase the risk of radicalisation among disenfranchised individuals.
The Power of Community: How the Social Integration Hub Makes a Difference in Hamburg
In the face of this growing crisis, Horizon Resource Network launched the Social Integration Hub — a community-based project designed to fight isolation and foster belonging through connection, movement, culture, and shared experiences.
- What We Do:
The Social Integration Hub, driven by volunteers, creates safe, welcoming spaces where people from diverse backgrounds come together to build relationships and strengthen their social capital. Our regular programs include:
-
Yoga and mindful movement sessions to improve well-being and emotional regulation
-
Dancing, art and music sessions that promote joy, creativity, and bonding
-
“Gemeinsames Kochen” (communal cooking) events that build cultural bridges
-
Sport and outdoor activities that encourage teamwork and natural interaction
-
Networking and social evenings that help expand personal and professional circles
- Civic engagement workshops to empower volunteers and enhance social participation by raising awareness on topics such as volunteering works, anti-discrimination, anti-racism, intercultural interaction, etc;
These events are low-barrier, multicultural, and accessible to all, from newly arrived migrants to long-term residents seeking new social ties.
- How It Helps:
-
Reduces emotional loneliness by facilitating deep, meaningful connections
-
Improves social capital — the trust, reciprocity, and support systems that help people thrive
-
Boosts physical and mental health through active, engaging group activities
-
Supports migrant integration by providing culturally inclusive and non-verbal shared experiences
-
Empowers individuals by encouraging participation, co-creation, and leadership within the community
-
The Social Integration Hub directly supports Germany’s federal strategy on combating loneliness. The Federal Ministry for Family Affairs (BMFSFJ) and the Kompetenznetz Einsamkeit (KNE) highlight community-based, inclusive programming as essential tools for tackling loneliness and promoting integration.
Furthermore, our work also aligns with the EU’s social inclusion and cohesion goals, proving that local grassroots action can drive large-scale societal impact.
Building Belonging, One Connection at a Time
In a society where millions are silently struggling with loneliness, projects like the Social Integration Hub are not just helpful — they’re essential. We are doing more than organizing events by bringing people together to move, create, cook, and share. We are building communities of care, restoring trust, and offering a lifeline of connection in an increasingly disconnected world.
At Horizon Resource Network, we believe no one should have to navigate life alone. Through projects like this, we can ensure that they don’t have to.
🔗 Want to get involved?
Join one of our upcoming activities, volunteer, or partner with us to expand our reach. View our event calendar, join our community group on Meetup or contact us directly via email. You may also subscribe to our newsletter for opportunities.
