As the new Federal Government in Germany takes shape, key stakeholders in the academic and scientific community are urging decisive action to strengthen Germany’s position as a global leader in science, innovation, and international cooperation. 

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is calling for renewed political commitment to the internationalisation of universities and science. DAAD President Prof. Dr. Joybrato Mukherjee stresses that attracting global talent, expanding research cooperation, and fostering a welcoming culture are crucial to maintaining Germany’s competitiveness. With over 405,000 international students and 75,000 researchers currently in the country, their retention and integration into the workforce are essential for economic growth. To achieve this, DAAD is advocating for better scholarships, improved student support services, and stronger job market pathways for international graduates. Additionally, it calls for sustained investment in global partnerships, particularly with the EU, the USA, and emerging economies such as India. Recognising the pivotal role of academic exchange in fostering innovation and economic strength, DAAD is urging the new government to ensure stable funding, including an annual three percent budget increase to support these initiatives. 

These demands align with the broader concerns raised by the German Alliance of Science Organisations in the lead-up to the elections. The Alliance stressed that Germany’s scientific system must be reinforced to meet global challenges and enable rapid transformation processes. In an increasingly complex geopolitical and technological landscape, science and innovation-friendly policies are more important than ever. The Alliance is calling for stable and sustainable funding for research and teaching, a reduction in bureaucratic obstacles, and the promotion of a diverse and resilient scientific ecosystem. 

A key proposal put forward is the establishment of a dedicated ministry that integrates research, teaching, and innovation, ensuring a more coherent and strategic approach to policy development. Additionally, the Alliance advocates for a significant increase in research and development spending to at least 3.5% of GDP, alongside the creation of a more flexible legal framework and improved infrastructure. These measures would not only strengthen Germany’s research institutions but also enhance their ability to respond swiftly to emerging challenges and opportunities in the global scientific arena. 

Read more in DAAD’s press release and the demands of the Alliance of Science Organisations in Germany to the Future German Government.