The research program of the Department of International Planning Systems focuses on the systematic analysis of the different forms of spatial development in an international context. The question underlying the research projects is: “In what way are planning systems and strategies influenced by increased European and international knowledge exchange and cooperation in the field of spatial planning?”.

In particular, this involves comparative country studies of planning systems, strategies and procedures of spatial planning as well as spatially relevant policies at European and international level. The examination of the differences and similarities between planning systems and strategies contributes to anchoring German planning more firmly in current European discourses with regard to innovative methods and procedures in the field of spatial science research. Another important aspect here is the improvement of the training of planners, who must be able to meet the demands of the constantly changing framework conditions in an international context from an analytical and methodological perspective.

In summary, the research program addresses the following current challenges:

Ξ   The shrinking of cities in the so-called industrialized countries (Europe, North America)
     and post-socialist states.

Ξ  The investigation of planning strategies taking into account
    different planning cultures.

Ξ  The increasing importance of European spatial planning concepts
     and European structural funding for national urban and regional planning.

Ξ   The increasing need for partnership and transnational
     cooperation (territorial cohesion).

Ξ  Comparative studies on urban and regional development.