PIRI successfully convened the “Excellence Lab Bavaria-Africa: Academic Freedom – Perspectives on African-European Dynamics in International Research Projects” on 4 June 2024, in collaboration with the Bavarian Research Alliance (BayFOR).

Key Highlights:

1. Global Insights from the Academic Freedom Index:

Dr. Lars Lott (Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg) shared data-driven analysis from the Academic Freedom Index (AFI), spanning 179 countries. His keynote highlighted how academic freedom directly impacts research quality, ethical integrity, and equitable collaboration.

2. Cross-Cultural Case Studies:

a. African Voices:

(1) Dr. O’Brien Kaaba (University of Zambia) discussed funding constraints and political pressures in developing nations.

(2)Dominic Liche (University of Zambia) explored cultural/religious sensitivities (e.g., LGBTQ+ research) and their effects on academic autonomy.

b. European Perspectives:

(1) Prof. Gesine Schiewer (University of Bayreuth) detailed navigating restrictive environments (e.g., North Korea) through science diplomacy and shared lessons from Togo’s democracy-strengthening initiatives.

Continuing the Momentum:

PIRI’s Scientific Committee on Environment and Energy Transition will lead initiatives to:

Develop risk-assessment tools for academic freedom in research.

Strengthen capacity-building programs for African and European researchers.

Advocate for inclusive policies through global networks like the UNESCO Science Coalition.

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Partners:
BayFOR: https://www.bayfor.org/en/index.html