Research on and for administration - that is the motto of the National Institute for Public Administration Germany (NIPAG). The NIPAG delivers pioneering research that can be effectively translated into administrative practice and evidence-based policy and advice through a unified approach. The results of our research and consultancy work are directly integrated into a comprehensive transfer programme that includes national and international conferences, workshops and seminars. The NIPAG employs around 60 researchers from a variety of disciplines. They unite legal, economic, political, social and administrative sciences in one institution. Their comprehensive scope encompasses all aspects pertinent to public administration. The NIPAG is jointly funded by the Federal Government and the States. It establishes benchmarks as a centre for German, European and international research and consultancy in public administration. On the global stage, its represents Germany's overall national interests in public administration research

More about the organisation of the NIPAG

 

[Translate to English:] Institutsleitung vor BMI

Excellence in research with innovative solutions and concepts for administrative practice

Its activities focus on public administration at national and international level. Through rigorous research and extensive collaboration with the scientific community worldwide, emerging trends are identified at an early stage and innovative solutions developed to complex challenges. The NIPAG's research programme is subject to regular review and adaptation to reflect current circumstances. NIPAG projects have been and continue to be funded by a diverse range of institutions.

Bespoke scientific advice for policymakers and administrators

The NIPAG develops bespoke and scientific advisory services for clients from politics and administration. The NIPAG structure allows us to combine the latest scientific insights with a comprehensive understanding of processes and legal issues in administrative practice, providing scientific support for change management processes in local organisations and the development of practical action plans. The NIPAG's main areas of expertise include legal impact assessment and evaluation, municipal and administrative reform, civil service, administrative organisation and processes, e-government, open government and open data, public consultation and public-friendly administrative language.

The Competence Centre Youth-Check (ComYC) in Berlin, which is managed as a project of the NIPAG, has been engaged in the further development and implementation of the Youth Check since 2017 and constitutes an important component of the Federal Government's youth strategy. In addition to examining legislative projects for their impact on young people, the KomJC is also tasked with raising awareness of youth-friendly legislation.

The NIPAG has offices in Speyer and Berlin.

News

  1. News

    The NIPAG has successfully evaluated the Saxon Regulatory Control Council Act. The establishment of the Saxon Regulatory Control Council has generally proven its worth, although its impact falls short of the expectations of the legislature.

    green, yellow and white flag, Saxon flag
  2. News

    The German government has presented a draft bill on biometric facial recognition. Deutschlandfunk interviewed Prof. Mario Martini (NIPAG) to discuss the extent to which this proposal is compatible with EU law.

    Eye, Iris, Biometrics
  3. News

    The research project “AI and AI Compliance in Public Administration” examines how artificial intelligence is used in public administration and what rules apply.

    AI virtual fields in front of a laptop on a dark table
  4. News

    How can an effective environmental administration be secured in times of external challenges and a shrinking supply of qualified personnel? The project provides an analysis of the current situation with the aim of evaluating the administration's performance in environmental and nature conservation, as well as the challenges arising from the transformation.

    Double exposure graphic of business people working on wind turbines and green renewable energy. Concept of sustainable development through alternative energy.
  5. News

    On behalf of the State Ministry of Baden-Württemberg, the NIPAG is conducting a project to evaluate the administrative regulation on intensifying public participation in planning and approval procedures.

    Raising hands
  6. News

    The project “KJSG Implementation Support: Restructuring Administrative Structures in the field of Eingliederungshilfe” is being expanded. On behalf of the Federal Ministry for Education, Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMBFSFJ), the National Institute for Public Administration Germany (NIPAG) is supporting a pilot test of new administrative structures in the field of EGH for young people with disabilities in three model communities until December 2027.

    Four people, each holding a piece of the puzzle and putting them together.

Current projects

Projects

How is AI used and regulated in public administration? The project “AI and AI Compliance in Public Administration” provides clarity on its use, challenges, and existing regulatory framework.

Transformation of Public Administration Duration: 15/03/2026 - 30/09/2027
AI virtual fields in front of a laptop on a dark table
Projects

On behalf of the State Ministry of Baden-Württemberg, the NIPAG is conducting a project to evaluate the administrative regulation on intensifying public participation in planning and approval procedures.

Transformation of Public Administration Duration: 01/01/2026 - 30/06/2027 | Funding: State Ministry of Baden-Württemberg
Raising hands
Projects

How can an efficient environmental administration be reorganised in the face of a shortage of skilled workers and growing challenges and tasks? The project develops concepts to ensure effectiveness in challenging times.

Civil Service Duration: 03/12/2025-31/07/2026 | Funding: State Ministry for the Environment, Conservation and Taffic North Rhine-Westphalia
Double exposure graphic of business people working on wind turbines and green renewable energy. Concept of sustainable development through alternative energy.