DIn territories at war or under dictatorial regimes, journalists and humanitarian workers are most often threatened, kidnapped, arrested, sometimes murdered or, more simply, unable to carry out their work. But the case of Victor Dupont, a doctoral student at the University of Aix-Marseille, arrested on 19 October in Tunisia – while there he was working on his thesis on the relationship between young graduates and politics – and brought before a military tribunal for “having put State security is in danger” has made visible a trend that alarms the community of social science researchers: academic freedoms are increasingly threatened in a world in which geopolitical tensions and the control of authoritarian political powers are increasing. The status of researchers, theirs scientific neutrality and the prestige of the universities that send them protect their physical, moral and professional integrity less and less.
There are obviously many precedents, from the death in captivity in 1986 in Lebanon of Michel Seurat, a CNRS sociologist kidnapped in 1985. The detention of the Franco-Iranian politician Fariba Adelkhah in Iran, from 2019 to 2023, the three-year sentence on 14 October of prison in Russia for the French researcher Laurent Vinatier, a specialist in the Caucasus, are more recent examples.
But the issue has become sensitive enough for researchers… to make it the subject of research: on March 30, 2023, the French Association of Political Science and the French Association of Sociology jointly created a Observatory on attacks on academic freedomwhose aim is to identify cases, alert the media and national authorities, assist victims and raise awareness among professionals of the risks; a study day entitled “Academic freedom put to the test of contemporary issues” will be held on Thursday 14 November at Sciences Po Lille; the Presses universitaire du Septentrion has just published a collective work Examine sensitive terrain. Risks and methodological challenges in international studies (312 pages, 24 euros), presented on 8 November at Sciences Po Paris. Nine chapters recount twenty field experiences in which researchers describe not only the constraints experienced, but also the methods used to address them, or the questions of conscience that arise when it comes to reconciling their own safety, or that of the actors they encounter, with the needs of their research and the freedom of their observations.
What are the historical implications of threats to academic freedom in politically unstable environments?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Dr. Sarah Blakewood, Expert in Academic Freedom and Human Rights
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Blakewood. Thank you for joining us. Today, we’re discussing the alarming trend of threats to academic freedoms, especially in regions experiencing geopolitical tensions or authoritarian regimes. Let’s start with the recent case of Victor Dupont. What are your initial thoughts on his arrest in Tunisia?
Dr. Sarah Blakewood: Thank you for having me. Victor Dupont’s case is indeed troubling. It’s a stark reminder of how vulnerable scholars can be, especially when their research touches on sensitive political topics. His arrest under the pretext of “endangering state security” highlights a chilling trend where academic inquiry is increasingly viewed with suspicion by authoritarian regimes.
Time.news Editor: It seems like Victor isn’t an isolated case. We have precedents like Michel Seurat, who died in captivity. How do these historical examples reflect the current situation for researchers in politically unstable environments?
Dr. Sarah Blakewood: Absolutely, the cases of scholars like Michel Seurat resonate deeply today. They serve as cautionary tales illustrating that the peril faced by researchers can escalate quickly, especially in regions where governments are both paranoid and repressive. The historical context shows us that this isn’t a new problem; it’s been essential to understand how the stakes have always been high, and vigilance has always been necessary.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned the increasing perception of academic work as suspicious. What are some broader implications of this trend for social science research and academia as a whole?
Dr. Sarah Blakewood: The implications are profound. Universities have historically been places of free thought and critical inquiry, but if researchers fear for their safety, it stifles innovation and discourse. When academics practice self-censorship out of fear of retribution, the academic community loses vital insights. Moreover, it can lead to a chilling effect where only non-controversial topics are researched, limiting our understanding of critical social issues.
Time.news Editor: In light of these challenges, what can academic institutions do to better protect the freedoms of their researchers abroad?
Dr. Sarah Blakewood: Institutions need to take a proactive approach. This includes providing robust support systems for researchers working in risky environments, such as legal assistance, safety training, and emotional support. It is also vital for universities to establish clear policies asserting their commitment to academic freedom and to advocate for their scholars’ rights internationally. Furthermore, collaborative frameworks with organizations focused on human rights can provide an extra layer of protection.
Time.news Editor: What role can the international community play in safeguarding academic freedoms in these troubled regions?
Dr. Sarah Blakewood: Global cooperation is essential. The international community, including governments, NGOs, and academic associations, needs to put pressure on authoritarian regimes to uphold academic freedom. Diplomatic measures, public awareness campaigns, and even sanctions against countries that systematically suppress academic inquiry can help. Additionally, fostering partnerships with local scholars can amplify their voices and bolster their protection.
Time.news Editor: Lastly, what message should we convey to young academics who are entering this challenging landscape? How can they navigate their research sensitively?
Dr. Sarah Blakewood: My message to young researchers is one of resilience and caution. While it’s vital to pursue the truth, it’s equally important to assess the context carefully. They should prioritize their safety and consider the implications of their work on both local communities and themselves. Seeking mentorship from seasoned researchers who understand these dynamics can also be invaluable. Ultimately, it’s about balancing passion for inquiry with pragmatic approaches to personal safety and ethical responsibilities.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Blakewood, for your insights on this pressing issue. It’s crucial for us to stay informed and advocate for those at risk in their pursuit of knowledge.
Dr. Sarah Blakewood: Thank you for shedding light on this important topic. It’s discussions like these that can lead to greater awareness and, hopefully, meaningful change.