Study: A "Foreign" Name Can Keep You Out of a German Home

A new study reveals widespread discrimination in Germany's housing market. Black and Muslim applicants face significantly higher rejection rates, the research finds. The key factor is often just a name. Applicants with names perceived as foreign received far fewer invitations to view apartments than those with traditional German names. This practice, known as "housing discrimination," contaminates the entire market. It limits housing access for minorities and violates German anti-discrimination laws. Experts call for stricter enforcement of existing laws and more anonymous application processes. They warn that without change, equal opportunity in housing will remain out of reach for many.