One budget was changed: it was 24 thousand euros, it will be 1 million. Because “academic freedom is in danger.”
Michael E. Mann, Naomi Oreskes, Gilles-Eric Séralini, Peter Hotez or Richard Horton: Everyone is scientists, All were persecuted or threatened Because of studies they published, or because of public statements.
Whether because of climate change, because of vaccines, genetics, artificial intelligence – there are several subjects that originate the campaigns of fury, harassment, defamation.
Academic freedom and the security of investigators are at risk, admits the government of Germany. Therefore, security will be reinforced.
In the German parliament, the budget for the investigation was already finalized. In all, more than 20 billion euros to manage, mainly intended for high technology, to numerous research programs and student loans.
But those responsible for Bundestag’s budget policy decided at the last minute to alter – significantly – a paragraph.
The point in question is “scientific communication, participation, social innovations”. Would be entitled to 24 thousand euros; It will have 250 thousand euros this year; will have 1 million em 2028.
This money has a destination: protect scientists that are being persecuted or threatened in Germany, summarizes the.
“Academic freedom is in danger When investigators already expect massive threats because some do not like their work, ”said Svenja Schulze of the SPD and a member of the budget policy committee.
Germany is a country with a strong presence in the investigation. It is even the most popular European country for international researchers – much because of academic freedom (and the quality of their universities).
“For this to continue this way, we need to firmly combat hatred speech and defamation,” added Svenja Schulze, who was Minister of Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany.
