University of Jena publishes new guidance for researchers under attack

Anti-academic and politically motivated attacks on researchers are on the rise—be it through coordinated online campaigns, personal threats or public defamation. To support researchers in dealing with such situations, the Centre for Research on Right-Wing Extremism, Democracy Education and Societal Integration (KomRex) at Friedrich Schiller University Jena has published the new online resource »Resilient Research«.

»Many researchers are insecure and ask us how they can prepare themselves for situations in which they are denigrated or put under pressure because of their scientific work«, says Prof. Dr Tobias Rothmund, Director of KomRex. »With the new website, we are providing knowledge, recommendations for action and support services that can help to recognize risks and react appropriately in an emergency.«

The website is aimed at researchers and teaching staff at institutions of higher education and scientific institutions. It bundles information on various forms of anti-scientific attacks and shows how those affected can protect themselves preventively and remain capable of acting in acute situations.

Current figures show that the need for such services is growing: According to a study by the German Centre for Higher Education Research and Science Studies (DZHW) cited on the website, 45 per cent of scientists in Germany surveyed in 2023 have already experienced anti-science sentiment. Around 70 per cent perceive an increase in such attacks.

The online resource offers specific advice on protecting personal data, building collegial support networks and taking organizational precautions at events. It also contains guidelines for dealing with acute threatening situations and refers to local, regional and nationwide advisory and support services.

The aim of the resource is to strengthen the resilience of researchers in the face of attacks and thus contribute to the protection of academic freedom. The content is available in both German and English and can also be downloaded as a brochure. The service is to be continuously updated.

About the KomRex

The Centre for Research on Right-Wing Extremism, Democracy Education and Societal Integration (KomRex) is a scientific institution of Friedrich Schiller University Jena. It pools and promotes the University’s expertise in the subject areas of right-wing extremism research, democracy education and societal integration.