Statement on Cultural Openness, Diversity, and a Strong Democracy

5 February 2024

More than 7,000 people from 80 countries work together at Forschungszentrum Jülich. Cultural openness, international collaboration, and diversity are essential for our research. As a member of the Helmholtz Association, Forschungszentrum Jülich supports the statement of the Alliance of Science Organisations for an open society and a strong democracy.

The Alliance of Science Organisations released their statement in German. Forschungszentrum Jülich is providing a translation of this statement here to ensure that the message can be understood by all:

To ensure Germany’s ability to meet future challenges, we must build on an open society and a strong democracy.

As the Alliance of Science Organisations, we strongly condemn any type of anti-democratic and inhumane acts. We vehemently reject the racist remarks that have become public in recent weeks. These are in no way compatible with the values of our organizations. Together, we are taking a stance against this in no uncertain terms.

The numerous demonstrations throughout Germany impressively demonstrate the great cohesion in our society. The clear commitment shown by the many people who are visibly standing up for the fundamental values of our democracy at this time is an enormously encouraging signal.

An open society and a strong democracy form the foundation of our future. Perseverance and great commitment is now needed from all us to preserve this foundation. There can be no room for intolerance and xenophobia in Germany. The science organizations in particular must advocate an open, reasoned culture of debate and counteract divisions in society.

In order to solve the grand challenges of our time together, we need a wide variety of talents and ideas. This premise applies unreservedly to the entire science spectrum, from basic research right up to the transfer to industry and society: international talents are an essential pillar of our innovation system. The development of sustainable solutions can only succeed through international exchange and through a large number of employees and students who come to us from abroad. Anyone who wants to exclude people, or even expel them, is therefore not only acting in an appallingly inhumane manner oblivious to history, but they are also destroying a viable future for Germany.

Link to the statement on the website of the Alliance of Science Organisations