Showing strong solidarity with our Israeli colleagues
28 July 2023
The Coimbra Group, together with other major research organisations, has endorsed a joint statement raising concern about threats to academic freedom and institutional autonomy in Israel if the proposed judicial reforms proceed:
Freedom and Autonomy of Science and Research in Israel
Scientific collaboration with Israel, a leading nation in research and innovation, is essential to us. In the light of decades of inspiring intellectual exchange and the special relationship between research organisations in our countries, we feel compelled to take a stand on recent developments that can negatively affect international cooperation. In particular, we share concerns of our colleagues and friends in Israel that the current judicial reform plans endanger academic freedom and may greatly restrict our joint scientific and innovative potential. We firmly believe that freedom of research and autonomy of academic institutions are essential for the continued prosperity of societies in Israel, Germany and worldwide.
On 24 July 2023, the Israeli parliament approved a key piece of the controversial judicial reform, passing a bill that sharply curtails the Supreme Court’s authority. The elimination of the “reasonableness” standard fills the Israeli researchers and scholars with great concern. Further signatories of the statement are welcome.
Please find here the official page of the statement.