Christoph Butterwegge, Poverty, Regensburg

Christoph Butterwegge, Poverty, Regensburg: Poverty researcher warns of social unrest

In view of the increasing poverty in Germany, the poverty researcher Christoph Butterwegge has warned of social unrest. "If the divide between rich and poor continues to grow, then social peace is endangered," said the 69-year-old professor from the University of Cologne to the newspapers of the Funke media group (Friday editions).

Butterwegge criticized the fact that despite the economic upswing, poverty had increased slightly in recent years. According to official figures, around 13.4 million people in Germany are currently at risk of poverty.

He also criticized that many people who work full-time are still poor. "We have to get away from the idea that only the unemployed and the lazy are poor," Butterwegge said. "Working poor" are particularly affected by poverty in old age, he warned.

Regensburg: Many people in Regensburg affected by poverty

In Regensburg, too, many people are affected by poverty. According to a study by the Paritätischer Wohlfahrtsverband, around 15 percent of the population in Regensburg are at risk of poverty. This corresponds to around 20,000 people.

The study also found that the risk of poverty is particularly high among single parents, unemployed people and people with a migration background.

The city of Regensburg is trying to combat poverty with various measures. For example, there is a social pass that gives people with low incomes access to cultural and leisure activities. In addition, there are advice centers and food banks that help people in need.