We want science to act as a sparring partner and an enabler for informed decision-making in politics and society.
by Tilo Böhmann
Today’s world is shaped by complex global crises—geopolitical conflicts, systemic competition, societal polarization, and hostility toward science. We believe that universities must provide space for scientific reflection and dialogue on these challenges.
That is why we have established international conference formats, such as the Hamburg Forum for Global Science and Policy, bringing together researchers, scientific experts, policymakers, and societal actors. Our aim is to discuss perspectives for future global science systems amid these intertwined crises and societal pressures, and to contribute to debates in science and higher education policy.
We want science to act as a sparring partner and an enabler for informed decision-making in politics and society.
At University of Hamburg, we believe that multilateral collaboration and networks are crucial for building resilience. We therefore cultivate our strategic network with partner universities worldwide, with a focus on multilateral cooperation—what we sometimes call “network of networks.” In this sense, for us, science diplomacy is not an abstract concept. It is, very concretely, about bringing networks of people together who are actually collaborating.
At the same time, we are not naïve. We are also active in research security to protect our research from misuse. For us, this is not a limitation of international cooperation, but a prerequisite for collaborating responsibly and sustainably.
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