The Arnold Bergstraesser Institute is an independent non-profit research institute based in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany, and affiliated with the University of Freiburg. Founded in 1960, it conducts comparative area studies and transregional research on Africa, Asica, Latin America and the Middle East. Its academic work focuses on transformations of power, state structures and social conflicts, particularly in relation to conflict and fragility, contested governance and patterns of forced migration.

The ABI combines attention to regional political, economic, social and historical contexts with comparison across countries and over time. It aims to contribute to academic and policy debates through research with practical relevance, public dialogue and research-based consultancy. The Institute also supports training in comparative development studies through teaching and academic supervision. Its approach emphasises collaborative and reciprocal cooperation, critical reflection on research practices and the reduction of global inequalities in knowledge production.