German Institute of Urban Affairs

Point of view

The city as a raw materials store – Why cities should act circularly

The circular city is not a utopia, but the future of urban living. Municipalities can and should set the course now – for greater resilience, quality of life and independence. Circular principles create ecological, economic and social added value. read more

Point of view

The digital provision of public utilities & services is a shared task

Without access to digital services, it is difficult to organise many necessary tasks. The digital provision of public utilities and services is therefore a basic service for which the responsibilities of the federal government, federal states and municipalities need to be clarified. read more

Point of view

Climate Adaptation Act – Everything can, little must

For the first time, Germany’s Federal Climate Adaptation Act (KAnG) provides a nationwide legal framework for adapting to climate change. It is now in the hands of the regional federal states as to whether this will lead to the municipalities being able to prepare for climate change in good time. read more

Point of view

Without housing provision: essential basis for integration is missing

A long-term and independent perspective for housing, which ensures privacy and security, is an important requirement for integration. When they have strong and motivated partners municipalities can make a contribution to solving this issue. read more

Point of view

Standstill instead of necessary modernisation of the German Road Traffic Act [Straßenverkehrsgesetz]

The reform of the German Road Traffic Act [Straßenverkehrsgesetz] has been put on ice, meaning the municipalities’ scope to implement future-orientated measures for the necessary transport transition has been blocked. read more

Research and Publications

Annual Review

In the annual reviews, Difu succinctly presents a selection of its work in research and further training in the field of urban development, social affairs, economy, infrastructure, mobility and environment. read more

The German Institute of Urban Affairs (Difu) is the largest urban research institute in the German-speaking region. We advise municipalities on all tasks that they face now and in the future. Independent, objective and profound.

Mission statement

Foto: Pixabay/ User: MERHAL

The research institute of cities and towns

Difu is an institution of solidarity for the German cities and towns. More than 100 municipalities, municipal associations and planning communities support the institute on a voluntary basis and make use of an expanded range of services.

Networks and cooperations

Together with our networks and partners in politics, academia and society, we think progressively about urban development. With our pooled specialist expertise, we support and advise municipalities in making decisions.