The Union of Research Professionals is concerned about the weakening of scientific freedom both internationally and in Finland. Science and research should not be used as an instrument of political power.
The Union of Research Professionals is deeply concerned about the weakening of scientific freedom both internationally and in Finland. Recent events have shown that political power is more openly attempting to control what researchers can study, publish and say. This development poses a serious threat to both scientific autonomy and the industrial peace of researchers.
In the United States, President Donald Trump has launched a systematic attack against Harvard University because it would not yield to political guidance. In practice, this means there will be cuts in federal funding and ideologically motivated interference with research and educational content. University researchers and teachers will be forced to work in an atmosphere of fear. The wrong research topic or critical perspective might lead to a loss of funding or even one’s job.
Signs of similar phenomena can be seen in Finland as well. The rejection of the Strategic Research Council’s programme theme for political reasons, the shutdown of the Climate Panel, and the proposals to limit research funding on the basis of security policies are all signals that the freedom of researchers is no longer self-evident.
Scientific study is founded on the freedom of researchers to choose their own subjects, to use scientifically justified methods, and to publish their results without fear of political consequences. Without this freedom, research is no longer a science but an instrument of power.
Many researchers feel increasing uncertainty, online bullying, and pressure in their everyday working life. In particular, experts who are researching socially sensitive topics, such as climate, gender, and immigration, have been subjected to public attacks and threats. In such an atmosphere, it is increasingly difficult to conduct independent research and train a new generation of researchers who would dare to expose truths that will not please everyone.
The Union of Research Professionals points out that free science is not a privilege of the research community but an aspect of the security of society as a whole. Only critical and independent research can disclose structural problems, produce new perspectives, and help make better decisions.
We defend the right of researchers to do their work freely, and we urge society as a whole to do the same.
Further information:
Antti Pajala, President
antti.pajala(at)tieteentekijat.fi
Nina Hahtela, Executive Director
nina.hahtela(at)tieteentekijat.fi