Wadephul regrets closure of Goethe Institutes in Russia

Background: Role of the Goethe Institutes

Wadephul assessed the decision as a setback for international understanding. In his statement, he emphasized that especially in times of political tension, the open channel between societies must not be given up lightly. Wadephul also pointed out that Germany wants to keep the dialogue open.

From the Federal Foreign Office in Berlin, it was stated that Germany had been informed about the Russian decision for some time. The federal government regrets the step but will continue its own offerings for Russian students, academics, and those interested in culture through alternative channels, such as digital programs. At the same time, it remains ready to hold talks on cultural cooperation.

Reactions from Berlin

In recent years, Russia has repeatedly classified German and international foundations and organizations as undesirable and imposed bans on their activities. Previously, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the German Historical Institute in Moscow were affected by corresponding measures. Observers see the current decision as part of a broader pattern of restricting civil society exchange.

According to Wadephul, the federal government continues to stand alongside those who advocate for understanding and dialogue. It is to be hoped that the Russian side will reconsider its decision as soon as the political framework conditions allow. Until then, Germany will maintain existing contacts through other channels.

Previously affected organizations

The DAAD, which has already been prohibited from working in Russia since 2023, stated that the decision against the Goethe Institutes fits into a series of similar restrictions. A spokesperson explained that academic and cultural cooperation with Russian partners has not been entirely interrupted but is now taking place increasingly through third countries and online formats.

The German Historical Institute, which for decades had promoted historical and cultural scholarship between Germany and Russia, also expressed concern. It sees the loss of an important platform for academic discourse. At the same time, it wants to continue supporting and expanding connections to Russian scholars who have left the country.

Cultural policymakers in Berlin responded with criticism of the Russian government. The decision shows that Moscow is systematically restricting contact with German society. At the same time, they urged that existing bridges to Russian civil society not be abandoned and that programs for Russian German-learners and students in Germany be expanded.

From Moscow itself, there was initially no detailed statement on Wadephul's remarks. The Russian news agency TASS had previously reported that the Prosecutor General's Office had classified the activities of the Goethe Institutes as undesirable. No detailed reasoning was given in the report.

Political context of the closure

The closure is part of a phase of clear deterioration in bilateral relations, shaped by Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine and the associated sanctions. In this context, numerous cultural, academic, and civil society ties between the two countries have already been interrupted or severely restricted. Observers assume that the current decision will further reduce the already diminished exchange.