In times of growing geopolitical tensions, societal polarization, and profound transformations of political institutions, there is a need for evidence-based, responsible governance.
Against the backdrop of the historic collapse of civilization brought about by National Socialism, the Alfred Landecker Foundation views it as its core mission to strengthen democracy and the rule of law. From this history arises a special responsibility: democratic institutions must be independent, efficient, and staffed with outstanding professionals to safeguard fundamental principles such as the rule of law, pluralism, and the protection of minorities over the long term. Based on this conviction, the Alfred Landecker Foundation supports projects that make a substantial contribution to reinforcing democratic institutions – in research, in teaching, and in public discourse. The Adenauer School of Government is a prime example of this commitment.
The School is an independent academic institution. Its namesake, Konrad Adenauer, embodies responsible political leadership in times of profound historical change – a mindset that is needed now more than ever, especially among future leaders. Following the Anglo-Saxon tradition, the new school will combine international, cutting-edge research with innovative, practice-oriented teaching. The School will receive permanent funding, starting with an annual budget of ten million euros.
Professor Dr. Axel Ockenfels has been appointed as the head of the Adenauer School of Government. He is a Professor of Economics at the University of Cologne and Director at the Max Planck Institute for Research on Collective Goods in Bonn. “The major challenges of our time – lack of social cohesion, declining international cooperation, economic crises, and technological upheavals – demand new thinking and responsible decisions,” says Professor Axel Ockenfels. “The Adenauer School brings together top-level research, forward-looking teaching, and interdisciplinary discourse, thus creating a place where solutions can emerge.”
Professor Dr. Joybrato Mukherjee, Rector of the University of Cologne, emphasizes that the university – with its international top-tier research, outstanding teaching programs, and proximity to Brussels and Paris at the heart of Europe – is predestined for this exceptional initiative by the Alfred Landecker Foundation. “The generous grant allows us to bring internationally leading scholars to Cologne to develop solutions to urgent societal challenges and design forward-looking teaching concepts. My thanks go to the Alfred Landecker Foundation and its chairman Dr. Peter Harf for their extraordinary trust in our university.”
Dr. Peter Harf, Chair of the Alfred Landecker Foundation and its Governing Council, states: “In a time of major societal, foreign and security policy challenges, and of a profound shift in Germany’s role in Europe, responsible, evidence-based governance is of crucial importance for the future viability of our country. The Adenauer School will be a powerful lever for change and impact. In doing so, it will strengthen the values of liberal democracy and a vibrant culture of debate in our society.”
Ina Brandes, Minister of Science of North Rhine-Westphalia, says: “With his wise and courageous leadership, Konrad Adenauer shaped the city of Cologne and Germany like no other. Especially in times of upheaval, as we are experiencing now, we need research and teaching in Public Policy, Governance, and Administrative Sciences that look beyond the boundaries of individual disciplines. My sincere thanks go to the Alfred Landecker Foundation, which has recognized the special challenges of our time and is committed with great dedication to excellent training for leaders in the public sector. The Adenauer School of Government fulfills all the prerequisites to become a new flagship for North Rhine-Westphalia as a center of scientific excellence.”
In addition to preparing a study and research program, the university will also initiate its first faculty appointments in the coming months.