Together with the Alliance of Science Organisations in Germany, we strongly support the German government's consistent action against Russia's belligerent attack on Ukraine, which is contrary to international law. The Alliance of Science Organisations in Germany and the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft see the Russian invasion as an attack against the fundamental values of freedom, democracy and self-determination — the indispensable building blocks of scientific freedom and cooperation. The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft institutes and entities have expressed a strong willingness to help.
In light of current events in Ukraine and the resulting political developments, the Fraunhofer executive board, in line with other members of the Alliance of Science Organisations in Germany, has decided to freeze all ongoing projects and interactions with Russia and Belarus for the time being.
Scientific thought and cooperation do not adhere to national borders. The ideas put forward by people from other cultures, religions and nationalities promote and enrich creative work and ultimately all of us. After all, science and its institutions are places of international character and cultural diversity. Accordingly, we want to offer help to people seeking refuge within the framework conditions we are given. We support and advocate the close cooperation of our institutes with the respective countries and municipalities, associations and aid organizations on site. A comprehensive offer of assistance for our employees is available in all relevant languages. In cooperation with other organizations, we will offer uncomplicated support to scientists in need of help.