ZDF series Mein Kiez: A look at the challenges in Germany's districts

ZDF series Mein Kiez: A look at the challenges in Germany's districts

On November 8, 2025, the exciting report series “Mein Kiez” will start on ZDF, which deals with the realities of life in various German districts. The series presents the districts of Dortmund Nordstadt, Kaiserslautern Betzenberg and Dresden Prohlis in a total of three parts. Loud Braunschweig newspaper The program will be broadcast at 5:35 p.m., with the first episode entitled “Dortmund Nordstadt – Deep in the West”.

The northern part of the city is not a blank slate: over 60,000 people, 80% of whom have a migrant background, live here under sometimes difficult conditions. With an unemployment rate of over 20%, the northern part of the city is a social hotspot characterized by garbage problems and crime. This also reports Ruhr24. Film author Nicole Clouth goes looking for clues and not only exposes the grievances, but also shows the positive side of the district, such as the strong solidarity of the residents.

Kaiserslautern and Dresden in focus

The episode “Kaiserslautern Betzenberg – More than just football” follows on November 15th. Here the authors Christoph Warneck and Simone Becker shed light on the identity and challenges of the many residents. A high unemployment rate of 9.4% and over 22% of children relying on citizens' benefits cast a shadow over the city that was once considered a football hotbed.

The series concludes on November 22nd with the episode about Dresden Prohlis entitled “Dresden Prohlis – Plate with Heart”. Prohlis, a district often associated with social exclusion, is home to around 17,000 residents, most of whom live in former GDR prefabricated buildings. Author Steven Melzer gives the people here a voice by presenting their everyday life and the positive aspects of the district. Once a flagship project, Prohlis now faces challenges such as unemployment, but also has a vibrant community that thrives despite the odds.

Availability of reports

The first two episodes will be available on the ZDF streaming portal from November 6th at 9 a.m., while the episode about Dresden Prohlis will be available online from November 20th, 2025. The programs are also offered with subtitles to increase accessibility for all viewers.

This three-part series is more than just a look at the social challenges in Germany - it also shows how people are getting involved in their environment and fighting for positive change. The mix of challenges and sense of community makes the report particularly worth watching.