Federal Research Minister Dorothee Bär (CSU) stated that Germany is actively working to attract more scientific talent from the United States and other countries to the country. Speaking to Welt TV, she highlighted academic freedom as a crucial selling point in the competition for top researchers.
Bär pointed to the government’s “1,000-Heads-Plus-Program” which she explained helps international scientists find opportunities to conduct research in Germany. She noted that this initiative has already been successful, claiming that Germany has recruited 300 international researchers so far, including those from the United States. According to her, Germany holds a unique advantage compared to other nations because its constitution (the Basic Law) firmly guarantees academic freedom. Bär concluded by warmly inviting international researchers to work in Germany.
Meanwhile, Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) made critical comments regarding education and careers in the United States during the Catholic Church Congress. Merz advised his children against studying or working in the U.S. at the moment, citing a concerning change in the social climate developing there. He also added that even highly qualified graduates in the U.S. are reportedly having difficulties finding employment.