Standing up for Academic Freedom and Human Rights
The Leopoldina actively advocates academic freedom and the human rights of researchers. Free research makes knowledge possible and drives innovation. It guarantees critical thinking and responsible behaviour.
Last edited: 05. December 2025
Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 10 December 1948
Further information
- More about the Human Rights Committee (HRC) of the Leopoldina
Academic freedom encompasses the freedom of teaching, learning and research as well as the freedom to publish academic findings. Together with institutional autonomy, i.e. the self-administration of universities and academic institutions, they are particularly protected in Germany by Article 5 (3) of the Basic Law and in the EU by Article 13 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights.
The pressure on science is growing everywhere: restrictions on academic mobility, choice of subject or funding, as well as an over-focussing on economic benefits. Scepticism and hostility towards science are spreading, as are espionage and sabotage.
Science must protect itself from such developments, but this must not lead to self-censorship and withdrawal from the public sphere.
The protection of scientific freedom is an important concern for the Leopoldina. It emphasises the benefits of science for the common good and prosperity and advocates better framework conditions.
It actively supports the self-administration and self-determination of the scientific community, for example through the Joint Committee of the DFG and Leopoldina on dealing with security-relevant research.
Through its Human Rights Committee (HRC), the Leopoldina supports scientists worldwide who are exposed to threats, abuse or persecution due to their scientific activities.