Germany's €13M Budget Cut Threatens International Scientific Collaborations

30 Aug, 2024

Germany's €13M Budget Cut Threatens International Scientific Collaborations

Academics are voicing strong concerns over a planned €13 million reduction in funding for the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) proposed in the 2025 draft budget. The DAAD, which is set to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2025, has warned that this significant cut will severely impact its ability to award scholarships to international students and support global academic partnerships. The reduction threatens to undermine Germany's commitment to international academic cooperation, as outlined in its coalition agreement, which had promised a 3% annual increase in DAAD’s funding.

The draft budget would decrease DAAD’s basic funding to €205 million, a notable drop from €218 million in 2024, and return the funding level to that of 2021. This comes at a critical time when the DAAD is expanding its responsibilities to include support for refugee academics due to global crises. Additionally, the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation faces a 3.5% cut in its federal funding, further straining Germany’s international scientific collaboration efforts.

The proposed cuts have drawn criticism from university leaders and experts who argue that reduced funding will hinder Germany’s ability to lead in global research and innovation. The draft budget still requires approval from the Bundestag, with DAAD and other affected organizations preparing to address the potential impacts.