Fragile Freedom
The Symbiosis of Democracy and Academic Freedom
Academic Freedom and Democracy are intertwined. At Ruhr University Bochum, we are therefore actively committed to strengthening academic freedom, democracy, and human rights through a range of institutional initiatives, including hosting human rights defenders as well as at-risk students and researchers, public engagement and higher education programs.
Hosting Human Rights Defenders and Scholars at Risk
During periods of conflict, authoritarianism, or democratic decline, researchers are often among the first voices to be suppressed. Standing in solidarity with them is crucial not only for sustaining a vibrant global research community, but also for safeguarding democratic values. This is why we, at Ruhr University Bochum, continue to provide safe spaces for socially engaged and threatened scholars from around the world, such as Dr. Vasil Navumau, whose story emphasizes the need to actively stand up for the preservation of democratic values.
Schülerlabor Fragile Freedom
The Schülerlabor “Fragile Freedom,” introduces high school students to the concepts and interlinkages between academic freedom, human rights and democracy and encourages them to engage in human rights advocacy for wrongfully imprisoned students and scholars.
RUB Action Plan for Democracy, Diversity and Freedom
In 2025, RUB has developed an Action Plan for Promoting Democracy and Diversity, which outlines strategic measures to strengthen inclusive structures and equal opportunities, democratic participation and resilience, as well as academic freedom as a core institutional value.
