Democracy under pressure = Science under pressure? Should we, or even must we, take a stand?

We are living in times of social polarisation. Anti-democratic tendencies, rejection of scientific expertise and hostility towards scientists are on the rise. Many people are asking themselves: What can I actually do? And what responsibility do scientific institutions bear?

📅 28 September 2026, 1.00–3.00 pm

📍 In person: BESSY Lecture Theatre, Helmholtz Centre Berlin, Albert-Einstein-Straße 15, 12489 Berlin

💻 Alternatively, online participation is also possible. Registered participants will receive the login details by email in good time before the event.

An event organised by HZB with the support of BR50 and IGAFA.

Programme

Welcome, Prof. Bernd Rech, Scientific Director of HZB

Moderated discussion on social polarisation and ways of resolving conflict with Dr Elias Steinhilper, sociologist and Co-Head of the Consensus & Conflict Department at the German Centre for Integration and Migration Research (DEZIM)

Keynote by Julia Wandt: Science under pressure: How can we counter hostility and take a stand? , Co-ordinator of the national contact point for hostility and unwarranted disputes in science communication Scicomm-Support and expert in science communications (jwd)

Panel discussion: What should and can we do now – as an institution and as individuals?

Afterwards (from 2.30 pm), we invite you to join us in the foyer to round off the event.