Medical University of Brandenburg: For the freedom of science!

Medical University of Brandenburg: For the freedom of science!

Brandenburg, Deutschland - The Medical University of Brandenburg Theodor Fontane (MHB) has decided to express their solidarity with Harvard University and other universities that are currently under political pressure. In an open statement that the MHB has published, concern about political measures in the United States is expressed, which restrict the diversity programs at universities and intensify control over foreign students. Here, the MHB is followed by the attitude of the University Rectors' Conference (HRK) and confirms the commitment to freedom of science, openness and diversity as essential requirements for excellent teaching and research.

These values ​​are anchored deep in the MHB's mission statement. Political influence on science and universities in the United States is increasingly being observed, which causes the MHB to campaign for the freedom of research and teaching as well as for institutional independence. Protection against party political influence is of central importance for innovation and social progress. The MHB demands that interventions in science are carried out exclusively on the basis of the rule of law and constitutional principles.

The legal framework of freedom of science

According to Art. 5 Para. 3 of the Basic Law, public universities in Germany can rely on the freedom of science. However, this freedom is not a matter of course, since universities are founded and financed by the state. Historically, the authorization of the universities to work scientifically was recognized in the Weimar period and confirmed by the Federal Constitutional Court. The university autonomy enables an independent decision on research and teaching. This affects not only professors, but everyone who deals with science, from students to postdocs.

freedom of science is often endangered by political influences and not by direct censorship. In this context, the state has no authority to prescribe research questions or to threaten with sanctions. The Federal Constitutional Court has repeatedly emphasized that universities are independent bodies and do not represent a company.

academic freedom in the European context

At European level, the European University Association (EUA) has published a position paper on academic freedom. This document is entitled "How universities can protect and support science" and was developed in response to the increased pressure that is based on academic institutions. According to Monika Steinel, deputy general secretary of the EUA, the pressure on academic freedom has increased significantly in recent years due to social and political polarization and the questioning of democratic systems.

The EUA suggests a “toolbox” in its position paper with concrete measures to support universities in maintaining their academic freedom. This includes, for example, the development of a common institutional view of academic freedom and the promotion of training and institutional reflection. Ensuring functional collegial structures and protection against inappropriate external pressure is also emphasized.

For further information on this topic, you can use the complete explanations of the MHB on their Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and the current status on academic freedom by the European University Association view.