The WZB Berlin Social Science Center conducts basic research with a focus on problems of modern societies in a globalized world. The research is theory-based, problem-oriented, often long-term and mostly based on international comparisons.

Our research areas are:

• Dynamics of social inequalities
• Markets and choice
• Society and economic dynamics
• International politics and law
• Dynamics of political systems
• Migration and diversity
• Political economy of development

Around 200 scientists from various disciplines work together at the WZB, mainly from sociology, political science, economics, and law. They are supported by around 150 staff members in administration, IT, scientific information & data, and communication and by almost 115 student assistants.

Research results are published for the scientific community as well as for experts in politics, business, the media and civic organizations.

The WZB's mission and vision statement can be found here.

As a non-university research institute, the WZB is member of the Leibniz-Association. The WZB closely cooperates with Berlin universities. Its research directors also hold chairs at universities in Berlin and beyond.

The WZB was founded in 1969 by members of the German parliament from the CDU/CSU and the SPD. The WZB is funded by the Federal government and the state of Berlin.