Abgehängten

Abgehängten (die Abgehängten) is a German term used to describe people who feel left behind by economic and social change. It denotes a group whose members perceive that modernization, globalization, or reforms have eroded their opportunities, status, or social integration. The term emerged in German political and media discourse at the end of the 20th century and has been widely used since the 2000s. It typically refers to workers in regions with deindustrialization, long-term unemployed, low-paid or precariously employed individuals, people with lower educational attainment, and residents of structurally weak rural or eastern areas.

The concept emphasizes not only material hardship but also perceived loss of social status, belonging, and political voice. In public debate, the Abgehängten are treated as a potential political constituency that may feel neglected by established parties and, in some cases, be receptive to populist or anti-establishment messages. Policy discussions around the Abgehängten focus on regional investment, education and training, modernization of industry, social security, and efforts to improve civic participation and social inclusion.

Scholars caution against oversimplifying a diverse population under a single label. Critics argue that the term can stigmatize individuals and obscure structural causes behind disparities. Empirical work often analyzes indicators such as income, employment, education, regional development, and political attitudes to assess who feels left behind and why, informing targeted policy responses.