Academic Freedom vs. Freedom of Speech
Humboldt-Universität's Ethical Guidelines provide orientation
The opinions of academics on current topics are more in demand than ever. As a public institution, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin (HU) offers space for discourse and debate. This can lead to tensions between academia and the public and between freedom of speech and academic freedom, especially when it comes to conflict-laden topics. In March 2024, the Academic Senate of HU adopted guidelines to provide researchers with recommendations for dealing with conflictual topics. The HU's Ethical Guidelines were developed over two years by professors, academic staff, students and members of the administration and university management and have met with a great response in the media and in the university landscape.