Dear students,
For Master or PhD student interested in academic freedom policies, there is a summer school in Utrecht taking place in August. The application deadline is pretty tight, but there is a possibility to request an extension if you email both organisers (see below for contact). The Mobility Office of the University of Basel would cover the reduced course fee and the accommodation and can also support in case you cannot afford the travel cost.
For more information, see the call below.
***Call for Applications***
International Summer School „Advocacy for Academic Freedom and Human Rights»
Registration Deadline: 2 May 2025
Course Fee: Students from Utrecht Network member institutions pay a reduced course fee of only 150 Euro (in comparison to 400 Euro for members from other institutions).
At a time when the freedom and courage to think and the human rights of students and scholars are increasingly under threat, including in Europe, universities must remain places where academic freedom, academic solidarity and academic responsibility flourish.
How can we protect these fundamental academic values on campus and beyond? How can we support and empower fellow students and scholars facing persecution or threats to their safety and well-being?
The Summer Academy on „Advocacy for Academic Freedom & Human Rights» offers a unique opportunity to explore and discuss these critical issues in a global perspective, to connect and engage with international experts and initiatives, and to further develop your public policy and human rights advocacy skills.
Why Join?
- Engage in critical discussions on academic freedom in global perspective
- Get a thorough understanding of the intricate relations between academic freedom, democracy & society
- Learn practical strategies to promote academic freedom and to support at-risk students, scholars and institutions
- Gain insights into related EU & global policies and initiatives
- Develop hands-on advocacy skills to drive meaningful change
- Connect with leading organizations in the field (e.g. Scholars at Risk Network, Regional Coalitions for Academic Freedom)
Who Should Apply?
- Master’s & PhD students (from across the disciplines)
- Higher education professionals, including higher education/institutional policy advisors
When and Where?
- Dates: 18-22 August 2025
- In-person: Five-day intensive programme at Utrecht University in Utrecht (Netherlands)
- Online: Two to three preparatory self-learning sessions
Application deadline: 02 May 2025
Course Fee: Students from Utrecht Network member institutions pay a reduced course fee of only 150 Euro.
More information and how to register:
Contact Details (please send enquiries to both course coordinators):
Iris Vernekohl (iris.vernekohl@rub.de) | Ruhr University Bochum
Bart van de Laar (b.j.vandelaar@uu.nl) | Utrecht University