Forschungsinstitut Gesellschaftlicher Zusammenhalt

The Forschungsinstitut Gesellschaftlicher Zusammenhalt (FGZ) is an interdisciplinary network of eleven renowned universities and research institutions in Germany. Funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research, the FGZ is dedicated to analyzing and addressing the societal challenges of our time. With locations in ten federal states, the institute reflects the regional diversity of Germany and offers a comprehensive perspective on social cohesion.

The FGZ focuses on conducting empirical studies and large-scale comparisons to develop practice-relevant proposals for strengthening social cohesion. The research covers a wide range of topics, including identities, regional experiences, inequalities, solidarity, media, conflict culture, polarization, populism, antisemitism, and hate crime. These topics are examined both in the European context and beyond.

The main mission of the FGZ is to contribute to solving societal problems through sound research and the transfer of knowledge. The institute places great importance on interdisciplinarity and collaboration to develop comprehensive and innovative solutions. The values of the FGZ include scientific excellence, societal relevance, and the promotion of an inclusive dialogue on societal challenges.

The FGZ is committed to sustainable research practices and the promotion of social cohesion as a foundation for a sustainable future. By incorporating regional perspectives and collaborating with various societal actors, the institute contributes to the development of sustainable solutions tailored to the specific needs and challenges of different regions in Germany.

The FGZ includes the Technical University of Berlin as well as the universities in Bielefeld, Bremen, Frankfurt, Halle-Wittenberg, Hannover, Konstanz, and Leipzig. Other partners include the Sociological Research Institute Göttingen, the Leibniz Institute for Media Research Hamburg, and the Institute for Democracy and Civil Society Jena. The institute's office is located at the three coordinating sites in Bremen, Frankfurt, and Leipzig.

With nearly 200 researchers from various disciplines, the FGZ is a significant player in the German research landscape, making a substantial contribution to strengthening social cohesion through its work.

1. https://fgz-risc.de/