Heidelberg University A Stable Democracy Needs Academic Freedom
Research and industrial organizations publish position paper: “We must not leave space for hostility to academia”
A stable democracy and competitive industry need freedom of research. A restriction of academic freedom must have as little space in a democratic society as hostility to democracy and xenophobia. Heidelberg University agrees with 23 leading academic and industrial organizations and endorses their statement “Academic Freedom – Successful Industry – Strong Germany”. In the position paper they stand up for, inter alia, protecting researchers from discrediting, strengthening academic self-administration and promoting an open society with a welcoming culture.
Education, research and innovation are our greatest capital, they form the foundation of our economy and our cultural achievements. Hence we must not leave space for academic hostility. Anyone who delegitimizes scholarly and scientific results, discredits researchers or politically manipulates research weakens the academic system, threatens the foundation of our society and endangers our affluence.
Statement by the academic and industrial organizations
“In view of global challenges, outstanding research is more important than ever. It is, however, only possible in freedom and in an open and diverse academic and scientific community,” underlines Prof. Dr. Frauke Melchior, Rector of Heidelberg University.
Signatories to the position paper include the German Rectors’ Conference, the German Research Foundation, the German Science and Humanities Council and German U15, as well as the Federation of German Industries and the German Chemical Industry Association.