Science for Society
How can science be strengthened as an indispensable resource for a more just, well-informed society and for evidence-based action? And how can it be aligned even more closely with society’s actual needs? These questions lie at the heart of the annual topic for 2026 of the global network of German Centers for Research and Innovation (DWIH): Science for Society.
Science requires openness. Only when it is free from external constraints can it fully unfold its potential as a driver of innovation. At the same time, science bears a responsibility toward society. Ideally, it does not take place in an “ivory tower,” but instead responds to the concrete needs of a global community facing increasingly complex challenges and seeking to base its decisions on sound evidence. To make this possible, it is essential to place greater emphasis than ever before on the audiences science serves. The major questions of our time cannot be answered merely in and for society, but above all with society. This can only succeed if research becomes more participatory.
International networking plays a crucial role in this context. Science is a global team effort that benefits enormously from multicultural and multi-perspective frameworks. With its broad expertise and worldwide presence, the network of German Centers for Research and Innovation both reflects the reality of today’s globally interconnected research landscape and serves as an important platform for sustaining urgently needed international cooperation, even in times of challenging geopolitical shifts.
Science in the Service of Society
The DWIH network connects local expertise with global exchange. Through a diverse program of events and interdisciplinary collaborations, it makes an important contribution to the question of how science can be aligned more clearly than ever with socially relevant issues. Science communication plays a key role here, alongside engagement with local knowledge systems and the development of participatory research approaches.
Further information on the work of the network and the 2026 thematic focus can be found on the DWIH network website.