Finnish Rectors ask political parties how they will safeguard academic freedom ahead of elections

Ahead of the parliamentary elections in spring 2027, the Rectors' Conference of Finnish Universities (UNIFI) is asking candidates to explain how they will defend the freedom and independence of research, secure long-term funding for research and strengthen the role of research-based knowledge in decision-making.

In a statement published on 16/09/2026, UNIFI reported that Finland’s position as a leading country in freedom of research and academic freedom had weakened. The organisation said researchers now faced more harassment and online bullying than before and that the political and economic influence on research had increased.

"At the same time, the ecological crisis and other security threats, economic uncertainty and disinformation are increasing the need for independent…