Germany's Think Tank Scene Thrives, Now Fourth or Fifth Largest Globally
Germany's think tank scene has evolved significantly, with over 200 institutions now operating, making it the fourth or fifth largest globally. The first, the Kiel Institute of World Economics, was established in 1914, with a boom in public-policy research institutes following World War II.
Initially, German think tanks were known for their adherence to 'Wissenschaftlichkeit', prioritising disinterested, scholarly research. However, the landscape has diversified in the 21st century, with many institutes adopting more proactive communicative roles.
Several German foundations support and operate private think tanks. Notable examples include Stiftung Mercator funding institutions like Stiftung Neue Verantwortung and the Alexander von Humboldt Institute for Internet and Society, and the Maecenata Stiftung supporting the Maecenata Institut. The Gesellschaft zur Förderung des Instituts für Weltwirtschaft e.V. backs the Kiel Institute, while the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung operates its own think tank, Analyse und Beratung.
Berlin has emerged as a hub for international affairs-oriented think tanks, both German and foreign. Many German think tanks now assume influential roles internationally, with high reputations and policy advisory functions.
To enhance their policy impact, German think tanks can focus on choosing relevant topics, utilising direct contacts with governmental actors, and employing effective convening formats. This growth and evolution reflect the increasing significance of think tanks in Germany's political and academic spheres.
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