Professors in Jena are calling for cooperation with Israel to be examined

Professors in Jena are calling for cooperation with Israel to be examined

The discussion about scientific collaborations at the Friedrich Schiller University Jena is gaining momentum. On October 8, 2025, seven professors from different faculties wrote a letter that addressed how to deal with Israeli partners. This was sent to the University Senate for information, which must now decide whether to seriously address the matter. This involves reviewing existing cooperation with regard to possible involvement in military activities in Gaza.

Among the signatories is Martin Leiner, Professor of Systematic Theology and Ethics. He emphasizes that the cooperation should only be terminated if the review reveals negative aspects. However, Leiner feels his views are misunderstood and points out that he already works with renowned Israeli institutions such as universities in Tel Aviv and Beer Sheba. The situation casts a shadow on the image of academic freedom, which the “Network of Jewish University Lecturers” sharply criticized in an open letter.

Focus on academic freedom

In the open letter, the network in question condemned the demands of the Jena professors and spoke out against academic boycotts. These would not only undermine academic freedom, but would also lead to the exclusion of Jewish and Israeli colleagues. University President Andreas Marx agreed with the network's view and emphasized that a review of partnerships with Israeli universities would not help resolve the conflict.

The debate about how German universities position themselves vis-à-vis Israeli partners is not new. A recent report from the Israeli Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology shows a significant decline in collaboration between researchers from Israel and Europe since the recent conflicts. This comes alongside a survey documenting discriminatory experiences among Israeli scientists. The alliance of scientific organizations, which also includes the Max Planck Society and the German Research Foundation, has clearly spoken out against boycotts and is actively supporting collaborations with Israeli research institutions.

Thoughts about our shared future

In a further step, Reinhard Schramm, chairman of the Jewish State Community of Thuringia, plans to organize an exchange of ideas and has invited Leiner and other co-signatories of the letter to gather in the Erfurt synagogue. This initiative aims to have an open conversation about the current situation and the importance of scientific collaboration with Israeli institutions.

Overall, it remains to be hoped that things will calm down in the academic community and that the importance of international exchange for scientific cooperation will not be pushed into the background. It looks like a way out of this complex situation can only be found through open dialogue and constructive discussions.