Ã×À¼ÌåÓýStatement on Academic Freedom Concerns in the United States

Ã×À¼ÌåÓýStatement on Academic Freedom Concerns in the United States

Publication date: Thu, 24 Apr 2025

The Ã×À¼ÌåÓý (IPSA) expresses deep concern regarding recent actions and decisions taken by the U.S. Administration that threaten fundamental principles of academic freedom, the autonomy of researchers, and the independence of higher education institutions.

In particular, the withdrawal of funding and the initiation of investigations into how certain universities have handled protests related to Gaza, their policies concerning transgender athletes, and their commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, represent alarming attempts to exert political pressure on academic institutions for perceived ideological dissent.

In recent weeks, there have also been multiple reports of international students and scholars –legally residing and studying in the United States– facing threats to their legal status. These include instances of visa and green card revocations, detentions, and, in some cases, deportation by U.S. immigration authorities. Furthermore, international faculty members employed by U.S. institutions or traveling to attend academic conferences have reportedly been denied entry or re-entry into the country.

These actions collectively constitute a serious violation of academic freedom, free expression, and the rule of law.

Ã×À¼ÌåÓýreaffirms its unwavering commitment to the defense of academic freedom and the institutional autonomy of scientific and educational institutions, as well as the rights of researchers and scholars all around the world.