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Science requires freedom – showing solidarity with our partners in the US
Science requires freedom – showing solidarity with our partners in the US
DESY is committed to free, independent and knowledge-driven research. Scientific freedom is the basis of our work and a prerequisite for scientific knowledge, innovation and social progress. The DESY Board of Directors is therefore following the current developments on scientific freedom in the United States with close attention and concern.
In addition to the personal freedom to research and teach, academic freedom also guarantees the institutional autonomy of research institutions – including the free choice of research topics, content, organisational structures, the structure of personnel and who they accept as researchers, teachers or students. Government agencies should not determine what is taught or who is authorised to teach or conduct research. In the United States, some of these fundamental principles of academic freedom are currently under threat.
These developments impact scientific institutions that have been close and reliable partners for DESY for decades, both in international collaborations and in personal exchange. The United States are among the most important science locations in the world. If freedom of research is restricted there, it will be a setback for international science and therefore also for progress and innovation. What happens there also affects us.
We declare our solidarity with all those who advocate scientific freedom in the United States and around the world. We support those institutions, initiatives and individuals who stand up for open research and free teaching under difficult conditions. Europe must be prepared to ensure the continuation of international projects and to offer prospects to researchers who are particularly affected by these developments.
The DESY Directorate, April 2025
