Urgent Appeal in Science Circulation - Letter Presented Regarding Streamlining Scientific Processes - Call to Minimize Funding in Scientific Research - Open Communication
In a series of developments that have raised concerns across Berlin's academic community, the funding contracts for universities in the city have been suspended for the period of 2024-28. This decision, made by the CDU-SPD Senate government, means that the committed funds for universities will not be released as planned, forcing institutions such as the Free University, Humboldt University, Technical University, University of the Arts, Charité medical university, several universities of applied sciences, and art/music/drama colleges to take drastic measures[1].
The implications of this decision are significant. Berlin universities are facing massive austerity cuts this year, amounting to approximately €145 million. Of this total, €135 million is to be withdrawn from operational budgets (staffing, materials, administration), while €10 million is to be taken from capital budgets for buildings and equipment. These cuts also involve the elimination of around 2,500 student places, representing approximately 10% of the available spots[1].
In response to these cuts, students and academics have taken to the streets, expressing their opposition to these science budget cuts. Their resistance is not limited to the immediate issue at hand, but is linked to broader concerns such as the government’s prioritization of military spending at the expense of education. A rally is scheduled for July 14, 2025, coinciding with what is reportedly the last day of negotiations for the amendment or change of the university contracts for the time being[4].
Amidst this contentious climate, the Technical University of Berlin's Chancellor, Lars Oeverdieck, has stated that he anticipates fewer study places in the future. He also suggests that savings should be made across all areas, including reducing professor positions. In a bid to enforce the university agreements, Oeverdieck has suggested that universities are preparing a possible lawsuit against the state[2]. He also emphasizes that the TU Berlin has a valid contract that should be honored[3].
The Conference of Presidents of Berlin's Universities has commissioned a legal opinion, which concluded that the agreements cannot be unilaterally terminated. The Scientific Parliamentary Service of the House of Representatives also concurs, stating that Berlin's universities have a legal claim to the fulfillment of the agreements[1][3].
However, as of now, no explicit confirmation of a formal lawsuit has been reported. The negotiations appear to be at a critical stage, with the potential for legal action likely if no satisfactory agreement is reached, but no detailed information on a lawsuit was found[1].
This crisis in Berlin’s higher education funding reflects a broader political and fiscal austerity pressure[1][4]. The situation underscores the urgent need for a resolution that ensures the continued support and growth of Berlin's academic institutions, safeguarding the opportunities and advancements they provide for students and the city as a whole.
[1] Berliner Morgenpost [2] Tagesspiegel [3] Die Welt [4] Der Tagesspiegel
In this critical period, Berlin's universities, including the Technical University, are actively considering vocational training programs as a potential source of alternative funding and self-development opportunities for students, given the significant budget cuts imposed for 2024-28 [2, 3]. Moreover, the health-and-wellness sector, driven by scientific advancements, could provide a fertile ground for cooperative research partnerships between universities and industries, enhancing education and self-development while generating revenue [4].
