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Understanding academic freedom (AF)
Academic freedom is a foundational concept necessary for quality higher education and a vital element of democracy. It is considered a
distinct, fundamental democratic right, rooted universally in the pursuit of knowledge and truth.
Academic fredome denotes the freedom of the academic community - including academic staff and students - in respect of research, teaching and learning and, more broadly, the dissemination of research and teaching outcomes both within and outside the higher education sector. In essence the concept ensures that the academic community may engage in research, teaching, learning and communication in society without fear of reprisal.
What does academic freedom protect?
Freedom of research
This includes the right to determine what shall (or shall not) be researched, how it shall be researched, and the methods and avenues through which the findings will be disseminated.
Freedom of teaching
Academic staff must have the liberty to define the curriculum and teaching methods, an exercise that includes strong public and social responsibility.
Freedom of learning
This value is closely linked to equitable access to higher education
Each of these freedoms entails the overarching freedom to think, to question, and to share ideas, both inside and outside the higher education sector. This protection applies to the dissemination of research and teaching outcomes both within and outside the higher education sector.
Why is academic freedom essential?
Public good and quality
Academic freedom is an indispensable aspect of quality learning, teaching, and research. It is a necessary condition for higher education institutions to produce and transmit knowledge for the benefit of society as a public good of high quality.
Advancing knowledge
It guarantees academics and students the freedom of thought and inquiry to advance knowledge. It provides the condition for challenging existing academic standards based on new research findings and is crucial for advancing the standards of academic disciplines.
Democracy
Societies cannot be genuinely democratic without honoring academic freedom and institutional autonomy. As a democratic right, it shares elements with freedom of thought, opinion, and expression
Conditions and responsibilities
While academic freedom is essential, it is not an absolute value. Its exercise is complex and must be framed by specific standards and considerations:
Professional standards
It must adhere to rigorous scientific and professional standards of the respective discipline.
Ethical conduct
The exercise of academic freedom requires respect for the rights of others and adherence to ethical conduct. Researchers must also be aware of the impact of their work on humans and their environment.
Secure environment
Academic staff must benefit from secure employment conditions so that they do not suffer threats, dismissal, or sanctions related to the content of their research, teaching, or professional views
Institutional autonomy
Academic freedom protects individual scholarship and the free functioning of academic institutions. Institutional autonomy (self-governance) is crucial to and constitutive of academic freedom.
Governance
Governance structures must consciously respect academic freedom, ensuring that academic staff and students participate meaningfully in decision-making processes and can express their views on institutional policies without fear of reprisals.
Resources
Rome Ministerial Communiqué
Rome Statement on academic freedom
EU Parliament Academic Freedom Monitor 2024
European Strategy for Universities
Academic Freedom Index 2025
Infographic on Academic Freedom