This event brings together experts and researchers to examine the challenges facing academic freedom in global and European contexts. The day begins with a keynote from Stephanie Balme (Sciences Po Paris), presenting insights from her report Defending and Promoting Academic Freedom: A Global Issue, an Urgent Matter for France and Europe, followed by a Q&A session. Roundtable 1 (2:15–3:30 pm) focuses on the forces eroding academic freedom worldwide, with case studies from different countries and regions in the world. Discussions will explore methods used to curtail academic freedom and the individual and collective responses from academia. Roundtable 2 (3:45–5:00 pm) examines the experiences of scientists and researchers in Franco-German research centres operating in illiberal political contexts. The conversation highlights the challenges for European research structures, their potential to foster resistance in host countries, lessons for Western Europe, and insights into strengthening capacities for academic freedom under pressure.

Event title: Roundtables: Transnational Perspectives on Academic Freedom

Organizer: Centre Marc Bloch

Date and time: May 20th, 1-5 p.m.

Location: Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Unter den Linden 6, 10117 Berlin, Senatssaal

Format: In person

Details: Registration required