Since 2012, DLR Projektträger has been managing the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space’s framework programme for the humanities and social sciences. Following the framework programmes “Humanities, Cultural and Social Sciences” (2012–2018) and “Understanding Society – Shaping the Future” (2019–2026), DLR Projektträger is now managing the BMFTR Framework Programme for the Humanities and Social Sciences for the third consecutive time with the new BMFTR Framework Programme “Guidance for a Changing World” (2026–2032). Over the next seven years, the program will provide several million euros to support innovative research projects in democracy research, artificial intelligence (AI), extremism studies, and international development initiatives. A key focus is also on fostering the transfer of knowledge between research and societal practice.

Addressing Societal Challenges

How can social cohesion be strengthened? What makes a society innovative? How can we preserve our cultural heritage and use it to shape the future? The humanities and social sciences (SSH) provide answers to these and other questions through their research approaches, experiences and insights.

The current Framework Programme focuses on diverse funding lines and socially relevant themes. It supports both: fundamental research in the humanities and social sciences and applied research, that provides important guidance, decision-making support, and actionable knowledge for policy and practice.

• In the research area of democracy studies, projects are funded that examine democratic processes, political participation and social cohesion.
• In the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), new methodological approaches are to be developed and data analyses carried out. The SSH Framework Programme also aims to facilitate and strengthen interdisciplinary research projects in this area.
• To comprehensively address the challenges of extremism and prevent extremist radicalisation, the new framework programme also involves interdisciplinary research into the underlying causes and effects.
• Inter- and transdisciplinary collaboration and the promotion of national and international research networks are also of particular importance. These include, among others, the renowned Merian Centres for advanced studies and Käte Hamburger Kollegs, which facilitate international exchange between researchers and promote long-term collaboration.
• Furthermore, research infrastructures are being established and strengthened at both national and European level.

The SSH Framework Programme also provides for the funding of open-topic research. This enables researchers to address unconventional questions and develop new research connections and collaborations.

Formats for Excellent Research, Networking, and Science Communication

In close dialogue with the scientific community, the “Societies of the Future” and “Humanities and Cultural Heritage” departments of DLR Projektträger are developing specific funding priorities and formats over the next seven years and supporting their implementation. The scope of the projects can range from small-scale research projects and consortia involving various academic institutions to large-scale initiatives. Examples include the regional study centres at German universities or the Research Institute for Social Cohesion (FGZ).

DLR Projektträger creates opportunities for outstanding research and innovative questions, while also integrating policy makers, administrators, civil society, and industry into the research process through events and discussion forums.

The central communication and exchange platform for the humanities and social sciences is an interactive website designed and managed by DLR Projektträger: the SSH Portal. It presents research results and practical examples in an accessible way and serves as the hub for strategic science communication, organizing content and formats tailored to specific themes and audiences. The SSH Portal thus acts as the central hub for the professional exchange of information between the research community, policymakers and the public.