Summer School: Academic Freedom and Human Rights

Defending Academic Freedom: Join Our Summer School

In a time when academic freedom is increasingly under threat, universities must remain spaces of free inquiry, debate, and solidarity. How can we protect these fundamental values? How can we support scholars and institutions at risk?

The Summer School on Academic Freedom & Human Rights offers a unique opportunity to explore these critical issues, learn from international experts, and develop real-world advocacy skills.

Program Highlights

• Engage in discussions on academic freedom across global contexts
• Learn practical strategies to support at-risk scholar
• Gain advocacy training in policy, legal frameworks, and social media
• Connect with leading organizations like Scholars at Risk and the Magna Charta Observatory

Who Should Apply?

• Master’s & PhD students from Utrecht Network universities and global partners.
• Higher education professionals, including policy officers and managers

Why Join?

• Understand the role of academic freedom in higher education & democracy
• Gain insights into EU & global policies protecting scholar
• Develop hands-on advocacy skills to drive meaningful change

• In-person: Five-day intensive program in Utrecht
• Online: Two to three preparatory sessions

Costs & Scholarships

• Course Fee: €400 (includes materials)
• Housing Fee: €200 (Utrecht Summer School accommodation)
• Funding: €250 grants for Utrecht Network students + limited fee waivers for participants from low- and middle-income countries

Application Requirements

• Motivation Letter
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Deadline: 2 May 2025

Find full details & apply here