Panel debate with SDU's Honorary Doctors of 2025: Academic Freedom in Flux - Navigating Research, Responsibility, and Public Trust in Transformative Times

Academic freedom is a cornerstone of democratic societies, enabling scholars to pursue knowledge without fear of censorship or political interference. Yet, in today’s polarized world, the lines between freedom of speech and freedom of research are being tested like never before.

At the same time, the European research funding landscape has undergone a profound transformation. Universities now find themselves navigating complex terrain: public backlash against controversial findings, internal debates about the limits of expression, and the growing emphasis on impact and innovation from funding bodies like the European Research Council (ERC).

As Europe strives to close the ‘innovation gap’ and boost global competitiveness, how do we ensure that academic freedom remains protected and meaningful?

This panel debate will examine the evolving relationship between academic freedom and societal responsibility, exploring questions like:

What distinguishes freedom of research from freedom of speech, and where do they overlap?
How can researchers at all career stages navigate a funding environment increasingly focused on deliverables?
What should institutions do when research challenges dominant narratives or provokes public controversy?
How can academic discourse remain both free and ethically grounded?

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion where DIAS Chairs and SDU’s Honorary Doctors of 2025 will delve into the numerous dimensions of academic freedom.

Moderators
Christine Stabell Benn, Professor at the Department of Clinical Research and DIAS Chair of Health Sciences.
Julius Koschnick, Assistant Professor at the Department of Economics and DIAS Fellow of Business and Social Sciences.

When and where
Thursday 30 October
15.00-16.30 - followed by a reception
DIAS Auditorium, SDU Odense

Limited seating - registration required
Sign up here by 21 October