National Coordination of International Topics
The Leopoldina runs the secretariat of the Committee for the Coordination of International Relations (AKA) of the German science organisations. It thus enables the coordination of joint positions of German science stakeholders on international topics. As a cooperation body, the committee also serves as a platform for joint initiatives.
Last edited: 05. December 2025
Successful international work and good visibility for Germany as a centre of science require the coordination of the key national players. The Leopoldina plays a central role in this: it works closely with partners from science and politics to develop joint strategies and strengthen Germany's voice internationally as a science and technology nation.
Founded in 1969, the AKA brings together the major German science and funding organisations, including all ten members of the Alliance of Science Organisations as well as the Max Weber Foundation, the Volkswagen Foundation and the German Fulbright Commission. The Leopoldina has run the AKA secretariat since 2018.
The AKA serves the informal exchange of information on current developments in international scientific cooperation and the coordination of its members' activities abroad. It meets regularly, at least twice a year. Joint strategies, approaches and initiatives are also developed and implemented.
The AKA maintains links with the cultural and science officers at the German missions abroad and their counterparts at the diplomatic missions in Germany.