Germany's Think Tank Landscape: From One to Over 200 in a Century
Germany's think tank landscape has evolved significantly over the past century. The first such institute, the Kiel Institute of World Economics, was established around 1914. Today, the country boasts over 200 think tanks, with Berlin emerging as a global hub for international affairs-oriented institutions.
The growth of German think tanks can be traced back to the post-World War II era. From the 1960s, these institutions began to flourish in West Germany. Today, they are influential both domestically and internationally, with several enjoying a high global reputation.
To increase their impact on policy and public opinion, German think tanks employ several strategies. These include choosing relevant topics, maintaining direct contacts with governmental actors, and utilising effective convening formats. Many institutes have also assumed more proactive communicative roles, reflecting the sector's increased diversity and vibrancy in the 21st century.
Funding for think tanks in Germany often comes from the state, based on the respective party's electoral wins. This is particularly true for the think tank-and-consulting units of the political foundations. Despite this, German think tanks have traditionally been proud of their research activities and adherence to 'Wissenschaftlichkeit', or sound, disinterested scholarly research.
From a single institute established over a century ago, Germany's think tank sector has grown into a large and diverse landscape. With over 200 think tanks operating today, these institutions play a significant role in shaping policy and public opinion, both within Germany and beyond its borders.
