Academic freedom and institutional autonomy at risk: Guidelines of the EUA to support universities

"Worryingly, academic freedom and institutional autonomy find themselves increasingly at risk, in Europe and across the globe. For the EUA (European University Association), it is essential to support universities as central actors in the protection and promotion of academic freedom", states the association in a guidance document titled 'How universities can protect and promote academic freedom', on 03/02/2025.

The document addresses guidelines for public authorities, university leadership and individual academics to support academic freedom, as "the responsibility for its protection and promotion is shared among these actors".

The EUA reiterates that academic freedom is important, as it "enables all university activities and missions; is a vital foundation for meaningful and high-quality academic research and teaching; underpins universities' intellectual role and active contribution to vital societal debates".

According to the EUA, governments and public authorities should, in particular, "engage in a continuous trust-based dialogue with the sector and protect the autonomy of…