Universities and societies worldwide are confronting a convergence of profound challenges and multiple crises at the local and the global level: increasing violations of academic freedom and human rights, (geo-)political and climate crises, growing fragmentation and uncertainty, increasing democratic backsliding and polarization. In this volatile environment, higher education institutions are under mounting pressure – not only to safeguard spaces of independent inquiry and critical debate, but also to actively contribute to resilient, informed, and inclusive societies as well as sustainable development.
The first Academic Freedom Forum 2026 brings together internationally renowned scholars and higher education experts, university leadership, researchers, and students from around the world and creates a space for dialogue, exchange, and collaboration on the pressing global challenges confronting universities and societies today.
Marking 25 years of the Scholars at Risk Network and 10 years of University Without Borders, the conference addresses the evolving role of universities and the university community in promoting academic freedom, protecting human rights, and strengthening democratic values in an increasingly fragmented and volatile global context.
Through keynotes, panels, workshops, and cultural events, participants will explore strategies to defend and protect academic freedom, human rights, and to reinforce democratic values—both within and beyond academic institutions.
Dates: Tuesday 9 June to Thursday 11 June 2026
Location: Ruhr University Bochum
Please note you can no longer register for this event. For further information, click here.