Daniel Ziblatt Appointed as Transatlantic Bridge Professor

We are pleased to announce that Daniel Ziblatt will continue his collaboration with the WZB as a Transatlantic Bridge Visiting Professor. Having served as Director of the WZB Department Transformations of Democracy from 2020 to 2026, Professor Ziblatt now joins the WZB Center for Civil Society Research through a fellowship funded by the Volkswagen Foundation.

In his new project, "Retreat or Responsibility? Civil Society Leaders and the Defense of Democracy in Germany," the political scientist examines the responsibility borne by influential actors from business, academia, religious institutions, the media, and trade unions in protecting democracy. His research analyzes how their actions, silence, or evasion either strengthen or undermine democratic resilience.

This appointment is one of the first three Transatlantic Bridge Professorships established by the Volkswagen Foundation. With the 2025 call for applications, the Foundation is responding to evolving relations with the United States and the growing threats to academic freedom: "The Volkswagen Foundation's answer to current challenges in the relationship with the U.S. is exchange rather than isolation. While isolating and nationalistic tendencies are increasing in U.S. politics and academic freedom is coming under pressure, research thrives on openness, trust, and international cooperation."

The program is designed for internationally recognized scholars from the humanities and social sciences in the USA whose research focuses on democracy, fundamental rights, academic freedom, or transatlantic relations. The fellowship provides for annual residencies at German institutions to advance their research and strengthen transatlantic scholarly exchange.

KK / 29.10.26