50 years of evidence-based policy: anniversary celebration at Birlinghoven Castle!

50 years of evidence-based policy: anniversary celebration at Birlinghoven Castle!

On July 1, 2025, the Fraunhofer FIT anniversary celebration “50 years of numbers for evidence-based economic policy” took place at Birlinghoven Castle. Around 120 guests from science, politics and society were present to celebrate this important occasion. IDW reports, that a diverse program awaited the participants, including keynotes and a panel discussion that highlighted exciting topics such as social inequality in the education system, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in political advice and the influence of social trends on empirical research.

The historical reference to the founding of Fraunhofer FIT in 1975 was brought into focus. At that time, evidence-based decision-making advice began at the Birlinghoven campus with the EAI 231R-V analog computer and the first order to estimate state BAföG expenditure. The political neutrality and scientific objectivity of the institute were confirmed by Dr. Sven Stöwhase, head of the department, particularly emphasized this.

Discussion topics and expert panel

Even though the focus was on the past, the focus was on the future. The panel discussion led to a consensus: evidence-based decisions are crucial for informed policy. High-profile panelists including Dr. Carolin Baedeker, Prof. Petra Gehring and Dr. Elke Baumann, tackled the challenges that affect our society.

The topics of the discussion ranged from external and internal security and climate protection to education, care and the prevention of poverty. Moderated by Prof. Luca Rebeggiani, social cohesion and equality were particularly discussed. Following the discussion, Dr. Rainer Frietsch says that the interactions between social trends and empirical science are crucial for progress.

Exhibition and future challenges

During the event, guests were also able to take a look at exhibits, including a chatbot about BAföG, which informed users about their own entitlement. Future challenges were also discussed, such as the role of AI in policy advice and the influence of social background on university education.

In conclusion, the moderators emphasized the value of working for good politics and the need for collaboration with the PR team. Certainly the event at Birlinghoven Castle will be viewed as a significant event in the history of Fraunhofer FIT, which will publish images and materials from this day on the event page to further promote exchange and knowledge.

Further information can be found in the book Springer.