In a world marked by political instability and the questioning of institutions, academic freedom is becoming a crucial issue. The rectors of Belgium's ten universities have launched a solemn appeal to defend academic freedom, emphasizing its fundamental role in the preservation of democracy, the quality of teaching and scientific progress. The text, jointly signed by the Council of Rectors (CRef) and the Flemish Interuniversity Council (VLIR), published on July 7, 2025, calls for collective awareness and mobilization to ensure that universities fulfil their essential mission: to think freely, debate openly and innovate without hindrance.
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