Together for Democracy, Social Justice, and Human Rights

The rise of far-right forces and their anti-democratic agendas pose a serious threat to democracy in Germany and endanger many people in our society. At Ecornet, the network of independent sustainability research institutes in Germany, we stand firmly for liberal democracy, the rule of law, and human rights – foundations essential for both a free society and independent, high-quality science.  

As part of our commitment to social and ecological transformation, we support the "Hand in Hand – Wir sind die Brandmauer" alliance and its demonstration "Mutig. Menschlich. Miteinander." on February 16, 2025, in Berlin.  

Across our society, individuals and organizations work toward social justice, environmental protection, and sustainable development. Ecornet institutes collaborate with them, conducting research and developing ideas for democratic, globally just, and effective socio-ecological transformations. Democracy and human rights are the foundation of our work.  

Democracy is not a given – it thrives through active participation and civic engagement. At Ecornet, we champion liberal democracy, pluralism, and tolerance, rejecting all forms of discrimination, hate, and anti-democratic ideologies.

With over 1,000 researchers across eight institutes, we develop concrete solutions for ecologically and socially just futures. Our interdisciplinary approach actively contributes to shaping democratic pathways for necessary transformations.  

The Ecornet member institutes are:
Ecologic Institute, ifeu – Institute for Energy and Environmental Research, IÖW – Institute for Ecological Economy Research, ISOE – Institute for Social-Ecological Research, IZT – Institute for Futures Studies and Technology Assessment, Öko-Institut, UfU – Independent Institute for Environmental Issues, Wuppertal Institute.