Dutch Embassy and Royal Society Host London Panel on Academic Freedom
Experts discuss protecting academic freedom in the Netherlands and the United Kingdom
March 11th, 2026
On Thursday 19 February, the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the United Kingdom hosted a panel discussion on academic freedom in collaboration with the Royal Society in London. The event brought together scholars, policymakers, and academic leaders to reflect on the meaning of academic freedom in 2026 and to examine the challenges universities face in protecting open inquiry. The discussion formed part of a broader effort to foster dialogue between the Netherlands and the United Kingdom on safeguarding democratic values within higher education and research.
The event opened with welcoming remarks by Paul Huijts, followed by a keynote address from Veronica van Heyningen. Professor van Heyningen highlighted both the threats and responsibilities associated with academic freedom in an increasingly complex global environment, emphasizing the need for universities and research institutions to remain vigilant in protecting open debate, evidence-based research, and intellectual independence. Her remarks set the stage for a broader conversation on how academic institutions can maintain these principles amid political, technological, and societal pressures.
The panel featured Alice Sullivan, Nathalie van Meurs, and Arif Ahmed. The discussion was moderated by Poppy Joyce. Participants explored how academic freedom is understood and implemented in both the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, examining potential threats ranging from political pressure to institutional constraints. The panel also addressed practical measures universities can take to foster an environment where open debate, research integrity, and intellectual diversity are protected.
Beyond its academic focus, the discussion illustrated the role of knowledge diplomacy in strengthening international partnerships. Exchanges between universities, policymakers, and scientific institutions help reinforce shared democratic values while promoting collaboration in research and innovation. For countries such as the Netherlands and the United Kingdom—both globally connected knowledge economies—protecting academic freedom is also strategically important for maintaining scientific leadership and attracting international talent.
The event marked the first in a broader series of initiatives dedicated to knowledge diplomacy, aiming to deepen dialogue and cooperation between academic institutions and policymakers in both countries. By creating platforms for discussion on fundamental principles such as academic freedom, the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in London and the Royal Society reaffirmed their commitment to supporting open research environments and strengthening long-term collaboration in science and higher education.
