Utrecht Network as a Key Partner of the Academic Freedom Forum 2026
Event date from: 11/06/2026
Event date to: 11/06/2026
Venue: Ruhr University Bochum
Event website: https://international.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/academic-freedom-forum
Cost: Free
Registration deadline: 15/05/2026
From 9–11 June 2026, Ruhr University Bochum will host the Academic Freedom Forum (AFF), an international event dedicated to examining the role of universities in an increasingly complex and volatile global context. The Forum marks two important milestones: the 25th anniversary of the Scholars at Risk Network and the 10th anniversary of the University Without Borders initiative.
Bringing together academics, university leaders, researchers, and students from across the globe, the Academic Freedom Forum will address some of the most pressing challenges facing higher education today, including threats to academic freedom and human rights, geopolitical instability, climate crises, and growing societal polarization.
Within this context, the Utrecht Network plays a significant role as an international partner of the Forum, actively contributing to shaping discussions on responsible internationalisation, global engagement, and the societal responsibilities of higher education institutions. Its involvement highlights the network’s ongoing commitment to fostering sustainable, equitable, and values-driven academic collaboration.
A key contribution from the Utrecht Network will take place on 11 June through the activities of its Task Force on Responsible Internationalization and Global Engagement (UN TF RIGE):
- UN TF RIGE Meeting (11:00–12:30)
- Workshop: “Re-imagining Global Engagement in a Fragmented and Volatile World: Towards Academic Freedom, Solidarity, and Responsibility” (13:30–15:00)
Chaired by Iris Vernekohl (Ruhr University Bochum & Utrecht Network), the workshop represents a central moment of the Network’s engagement within the Forum. It will bring together perspectives from both the Global North and Global South to critically examine structural inequalities shaping international higher education partnerships.
The session will explore how universities can move beyond transactional approaches to international cooperation and instead develop models grounded in reciprocity, solidarity, and long-term societal impact. Particular attention will be given to:
- the role of universities as duty-bearers for human rights and academic freedom
- the protection of scholars and students at risk
- the development of equitable and inclusive global partnerships
- the co-creation of knowledge across diverse epistemic traditions
Through its active participation in the Academic Freedom Forum, the Utrecht Network reaffirms its strategic role in advancing responsible global engagement and strengthening transnational cooperation in higher education.
The Academic Freedom Forum 2026 is not only a space for dialogue but also a platform for generating concrete strategies. Within this framework, the Utrecht Network stands out as a key actor in promoting a more just, open, and resilient global academic landscape.
Registration is open until 15 May 2026.
https://international.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/academic-freedom-forum
