Methodology used in the study

‘Germany in the Eyes of the World’ is an empirical study that uses qualitative methods. The third study follows the same methodology as its two predecessors, and the results can therefore be compared with those from the previous studies.

For this third phase of the Germany study, 154 interviews were carried out in 24 countries between May and October 2017. The interviewees and the countries were selected in advance based on a range of criteria. This qualitative approach sets the Germany study apart from other public opinion surveys that often tend to be quantitative in nature.

Selection of countries

The 24 countries were selected on the basis of their relevance for Germany. Criteria were: significance for bilateral and multilateral political processes, economic links and historical relations with Germany.

Selection of interviewees

Interviewees were selected for the study who were in a position to say something meaningful about Germany. The majority of them had either lived in Germany for an extended period or had close business contacts with German companies or family links with Germany. Overall, the interviewees represent a wide range of professional and demographic groups, and this was intentional.

Data collection and analysis

Each interview was carried out by two interviewers and lasted 1.5 hours on average. A total of 4,175 core statements were recorded. These core statements were consolidated into higher-level hypotheses and perceptions in various analysis workshops and, finally, presented in the form of this study.

Find out more about the findings in the study´s two sections on methodology and the Fact Sheet.