Safeguarding Academic Freedom A YAT Perspective

The Young Academy Twente (YAT) is increasingly concerned about growing threats to academic freedom, both in the Netherlands and internationally. In our new position paper, we highlight why academic freedom is essential for both science and society. We reflect on the specific challenges faced by early-career researchers, including political pressure, intimidation, and internal institutional dynamics. YAT calls for an open, safe, and inclusive academic environment where critical dialogue and independent research can thrive.