Science Without Borders in Germany

Abstract

Abstract This paper provides an overview of science without border in Germany. We provide new contribution by presenting an interesting analysis of science without borders in Germany and we add to the existing studies in the international literature by adding valuable contribution to the increasing debate in the international literature concerning the increasing importance of science without borders and increasing internationalisation worldwide. This paper reveals that the leadership of Germany in science without borders is demonstrated by the availability of recognisable and well-established scientific institutions; the prevalence of sound, systemic, coherent, and comprehensive institutional framework in Germany supporting international science, the adoption and commitment to internationalisation strategy of higher education institutions in Germany, and the availability of extensive network of higher education and research institutions and funding organisations supporting international science cooperation and science diplomacy. This paper presents examples of scientific attractiveness of Germany for science without borders proven by the availability of several outstanding German non-university research institutions that are very well-known worldwide including the German Academic Exchange Service, the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, Max Planck Society, Helmholtz Association, Leibniz Association, Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, and the German Research Foundation. In addition, Germany’s contribution to science without borders is proven by its leading role in supporting European Erasmus project, and Global Science Networks by contributing to funding, research to infrastructure development and personnel. Furthermore, Germany’s leadership in science without borders is proven by supporting Scholars at Risk and Academic Freedom. The results confirmed that Germany’s science system strongly reflects the models of leadership in “science without borders,” by integrating international collaboration, research mobility, science diplomacy, and humanitarian support for at-risk academics. To maintain Germany's scientific leadership model in science without borders, Germany science policies need to keep putting emphasis on decreasing obstacles to access, improving support arrangements, strengthening international collaboration and promoting migration.