Report Finds Widespread Housing Bias Against Black and Muslim Residents in Germany

Report Finds Widespread Housing Bias Against Black and Muslim Residents in Germany
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A new study has found that Black and Muslim communities in Germany continue to face significant discrimination throughout the housing process, the Daily Sabah reported.
Research by the German Center for Integration and Migration Research (DeZIM) shows that more than one-third of Muslim residents (35%) and nearly four in ten Black residents (39%) are more likely to be denied apartment viewings due to their names or physical appearance.

A field experiment reinforced these findings: applicants with traditionally German-sounding names received viewing invitations 22% of the time, compared with only 16% for applicants with Middle Eastern or North African names, despite identical application profiles.

The study also highlights that other immigrant groups, including Asian and Eastern European residents, encounter elevated levels of bias in the rental market. DeZIM scientific director Noa K. Ha said the results underscore an urgent need for policy action to promote fair access to housing and strengthen social cohesion.