Germany Urged to Boost Innovation and Strengthen Democracy by Bertelsmann Stiftung
On Tuesday, April 29, 2025, the Bertelsmann Stiftung held its annual press conference in Gütersloh to present their recommendations for Germany’s future growth and stability. The foundation emphasized the importance of innovation and digital sovereignty in order to make Germany a leader in the global economy once again. They also highlighted the need for a strong and resilient democracy, calling for bold reforms and greater participation from the population.
Hannes Ametsreiter, executive board chairman of the Bertelsmann Stiftung, stated, “A strong and sustainable market economy forms the foundation stone of democracy. When we enhance the economy and prosperity, we ensure social cohesion. We do not intend to allow the future simply to happen; we will shape it.”
To achieve this, the foundation proposed several key measures, including increasing investment in research and innovation to at least 3.5% of the gross domestic product, promoting entrepreneurship and start-ups, and driving forward innovative technologies in the energy sector. They also stressed the need for rigorous digitization through measures such as digital ID and efficient networks.
The foundation also emphasized the importance of strengthening democracy and restoring trust in politics. Their recommendations include greater participation from the population outside of election time, involvement of the younger generation, and protection of democratic institutions. They also called for a more robust pan-European debate on future challenges and measures to combat disinformation.
Daniela Schwarzer, member of the board, stated, “During times when our democracy is put under pressure from outside and is challenged from within by polarization and diminishing trust, our response has to be clear: we will boost the resilience of our democracy.”
In addition, the foundation emphasized the need for a digitally sovereign Europe, with reduced technological dependencies and a focus on the common good. They proposed measures such as treating data as a resource for innovation and ensuring critical digital infrastructure is secured by European legislation.
Brigitte Mohn, member of the board, stated, “We need a digitally sovereign Europe for Europe’s future development, with reduced technological dependencies and digitization that incorporates as its foundation the principles of the rule of law, sustainability, tolerance and diversity, as well as the common good.”
The Bertelsmann Stiftung was founded in 1977 by Reinhard Mohn and is committed to promoting social participation and a sustainable social market economy. Their program areas include education, democracy, digitization, and Europe’s future. Their ultimate goal is to ensure that everyone can participate in society, whether politically, economically, or culturally.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.