Hesse Universities Maintain Civil Clause for Research

Four universities in the German state of Hesse are currently upholding a voluntary "civil clause" that restricts their research to civilian purposes. The institutions include the University of Kassel, Goethe University Frankfurt, TU Darmstadt, and Geisenheim University.

While there are discussions at the University of Kassel about potentially easing this restriction, the other three universities currently have no plans to alter their commitment. Goethe University Frankfurt stated it sees no need for change, emphasizing that its statutes declare teaching, research, and study serve "civilian and peaceful purposes." A spokesperson explained that this formulation leaves open the path to achieving a civilian, peaceful world and serves as a guiding principle for the university community.

TU Darmstadt also reaffirmed its commitment to the clause, which has been part of its statutes since 2012. A spokesperson described it as an "ethical guideline for researchers' actions," underscoring the university's commitment to critically and responsibly reflecting on the impact of their research. The clause does not fundamentally exclude military research, and the university assembly confirmed its continuation and implementation procedures in 2024.

Geisenheim University also indicated that changes to the clause are "not an issue." A spokesperson stated that the university exclusively pursues civilian and peaceful purposes in research and teaching, aligning with its focus on wine, beverages, food, horticulture, and landscape architecture. Consequently, any modification of the clause in its statutes is not under discussion.