GoKawiilEU science advisers warn academic freedom under threat, link research to democracy
Members of the European Commission's Group of Chief Scientific Advisors say governments worldwide are restricting academic freedom, interfering with research funding decisions and, in some cases, targeting scientists politically. They argue science and democracy are deeply linked, outlining three ways research supports democratic systems: establishing shared factual baselines, building trust in institutions, and providing tools to adapt policy to changing circumstances. The advisers note EU Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva asked them in May for guidance on how science can bolster the bloc's democratic resilience.