A crowd shining telephone flashlights during a protest

Global Observatory on Academic Freedom

The Global Observatory on Academic Freedom (GOAF) conducted rigorous, innovative, and pertinent scientific research that responded to the urgent need for rethinking the concept of academic freedom. Facing theoretical and empiric challenges, GOAF stimulated the debate, connected engaged stakeholders, and reflected upon possible pathways vital to the preservation of academic freedom and democratic societies.

GOAF Website

Our Work

GOAF responded to the need for universities to effectively pursue the production, transmission, and dissemination of knowledge as a public good. On a global level, GOAF engaged in research and advocacy activities that promoted academic freedom as a cornerstone of higher education and of a democratic society. On the individual and institutional levels, GOAF addressed the need for a better formulation of the concept of academic freedom.

Research and Advocacy, Discussion and Debate

  • Connected global scholars with expertise and interest in academic freedom
  • Opened the space for debate and discussion on competing concepts and current challenges to academic freedom
  • Published an annual global report on the state of the field, accompanied by several case studies on threats and positive developments
  • Maintained an online repository of relevant resources on academic freedom
  • Reflected upon advances and innovative approaches to safeguarding academic freedom