German Social Organization Advocates for More Precise Actions to Combat Isolation
The Social Association of Germany (SoVD) is urging the government to increase funding for programs aimed at combating loneliness. More resources are needed for both personnel and infrastructure in public gathering spaces like libraries, pools, doctors' offices, neighborhood shops, schools and kindergartens, as well as a seamless internet connection, stated the managing director Michaela Engelmeier in Berlin on Thursday. "Politics must prioritize the battle against loneliness."
Germany's federal government is planning a more focused approach to tackle loneliness. Family Minister Lisa Paus was set to present detailed research findings in the morning. As per a study conducted by the Federal Institute for Population Research, one-third of individuals aged 18 to 53 report experiencing some level of loneliness. Since the onset of the Coronavirus pandemic, this has also been the case for younger adults.
"The substantial growth in loneliness brought about by the pandemic - particularly among those under 30 - demonstrates that loneliness is no longer just an issue for elderly people," declared Engelmeier. This is not a unique dilemma in Germany; other developed countries like Japan, Italy, and Great Britain are also facing this problem. "Now, loneliness is being fought at the level of ministries."
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