German Universities Face Devastating Budget Cuts Amid Austerity Push
German universities are facing deep budget cuts as federal and state governments push ahead with austerity policies. At least eight states have slashed funding, reduced staff, or cut student places in 2024 and 2025. The measures follow a long-standing approach of cutting spending rather than raising revenue—one that critics warn will weaken higher education for years to come.
The latest wave of cuts began when Berlin suddenly ended its 2024 Higher Education Pact. Hesse went further, writing austerity into its 2026–2030 university funding deal. In Bavaria, 500 academic jobs are set to disappear, while Hesse plans to reduce student places by 10%. Thüringen is merging institutions to save costs.
Protests have erupted across the country. Demonstrations, strikes, and rallies have targeted the cuts, with campaigns like 'No Cuts in Hessen' demanding renegotiations. A petition for more education funding in the state gathered over 11,000 signatures. Meanwhile, the federal government has also reduced support, halving the annual budget for the Excellence Centers for Exchange and Development (exceed) from 2025 to 2029.
The impact varies by region. Some states are increasing budgets, but others face severe reductions. Berlin and Hesse are among the hardest hit, with long-term consequences expected for teaching, research, and public access to education.
These austerity measures will reshape universities in the coming years. With fewer staff, fewer places, and less funding, higher education faces lasting challenges. Critics also warn that shrinking public services and rising inequality could strengthen support for far-right parties.
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