The European University Viadrina Frankfurt (Oder) has joined the nationwide campaign "Universities take a stand". In doing so, Viadrina reaffirms its self-image as an open, diverse and democratic university and sends a clear signal for academic freedom, human dignity and the free, respectful exchange of ideas.
The campaign "Universities take a stand" calls on people to take a stand in the face of increasing hostility towards science and attempts to exert political influence on research and teaching.
The initiative emphasizes that universities bear a special responsibility as places of critical thinking, free discourse and intercultural exchange. It calls on politicians to protect the freedom of research and teaching, to make scientifically sound facts the benchmark for political action and to promote an open culture of welcome.
"Cosmopolitanism, tolerance and democratic freedom are the foundations on which Viadrina stands as a university. We are committed to a diverse society in which academic freedom and critical reflection are not just ideals worth striving for, but lived practice," said Viadrina President Prof. Dr. Eduard Mühle.
"Hochschulen zeigen Haltung" is a joint initiative of various networks, including the Anti-Discrimination Network at Universities, the Diversity Network at Universities and the Federal Conference of Women's and Equal Opportunities Officers at Universities, of which the European University Viadrina is also a member.