Trend Declining academic freedom

Summary

The report finds that academic freedom, an important element of liberal democratic values, is currently declining. Many Dutch scientists feel constrained in their freedom to choose research topics or to speak out. External interference, political pressure and fear of reputational damage or legal risks lead some researchers to avoid certain subjects or change the direction of their work. The Dutch universities are jointly calling for the right to academic freedom to be formally laid down and protected. The report observes that pressure on academia, the media and public opinion appears to be forming a broader trend that leaves less room for critical reflection, satire and social criticism, and records that academic freedom is no longer a given at leading American universities either.