Summary and main conclusions from Human Rights, Democracy and Academic Freedom for the New Generation Symposium

by Lana Par, IUC Secretariat

IUC is grounded on academic freedom

Since its start in 1972, the Inter-University Centre in Dubrovnik has been strongly devoted to academic freedom as a necessary condition for science and scientific collaboration. As a meeting place for academics, students, and other interested in research and society the IUC Dubrovnik emphasizes academic freedom, critical thinking and open discussions. IUC aims at promoting and protecting these values in all its activities.

Summary and Main Conclusions

The discussions highlighted the fact that academic freedom in Europe and around the globe has been gradually eroding over the past decade, often through subtle and cumulative forms of pressure rather than overt censorship. Political interference, restrictive funding and governance arrangements, pressure from within academia, social harassment, private-sector influence and security policies can all undermine institutional autonomy and academic freedom. These developments are closely connected to broader democratic decline, including declining trust in democratic institutions and increasing polarisation.

Academic freedom is a fundamental condition for democratic societies, enabling independent research, critical debate, the testing of claims and civic education. Its protection should not depend solely on its contribution to democracy, as the pursuit of knowledge and truth also has intrinsic value. However, academic freedom remains insufficiently protected as a distinct right within the legal framework.

Students must be recognised as full members of academic communities and as independent rights-holders. Their freedom to learn, think critically, express opinions and participate in university governance is essential to institutional democracy. Yet students are particularly vulnerable because of their dependence on grades, supervision and scholarships, while digital environments, disinformation, online harassment and surveillance further encourage self-censorship. Universities must therefore distinguish legitimate academic disagreement from intimidation and attempts to silence opposing views, fostering open and respectful debate instead.

The discussions also emphasise that academic freedom entails responsibility. Academic integrity, respect for evidence, intellectual humility, pluralism and solidarity with scholars and students at risk are essential to its meaningful exercise. Protecting academic freedom requires action at both legal and institutional levels, including stronger standards, effective student-rights mechanisms, transparent governance, meaningful participation, protection against intimidation and a culture of academic freedom involving the entire university community.

Ultimately, academic freedom is a shared democratic responsibility that cannot be left to universities alone. Governments, academic institutions, civil society and students all have a role in protecting it. Universities must enable each new generation to become active, critical and responsible citizens capable of sustaining democracy.

You can also access a presentation containing Conclusion and Synthesis prepared by prof. Snježana Prijić-Samaržija here.