In a recent development, German Culture Minister Wolfram Weimer’s proposal to establish a Harvard University satellite campus in Germany has failed to gain traction. Despite initial enthusiasm, the German government has not made any contact with the prestigious American university, according to a written response from the Ministry of Research, Technology and Space to a question from Green Party member Paula Piechotta.
Harvard University itself has also rejected the idea, stating that opening a campus outside the United States is not currently an option. The university’s spokesperson emphasized that the institution is focused on its existing locations.
Piechotta, the Green Party member, has criticized the Culture Minister’s proposal, saying that “clapping alone is not a solid form of government work.” In times of growing threats to academic freedom, Germany should be a reliable haven of freedom, she added and not just make empty promises.
While Culture Minister Weimer’s office initially confirmed that they were in discussions with various parties on the issue, it remains unclear with whom they were in contact, as some conversations were reportedly kept confidential.