Promotion of scientific freedom and the safety of scientists: A new Programme and Call to Action
Science can best flourish in an open and safe ecosystem that encourages the free flow of ideas. Today scientists face increasing and multifaceted threats, triggered either by personal characteristics, their choice of research or the context in which they find themselves (i.e. fieldwork, conflicts, emergency situations, etc.). Expanding our limited understanding of the phenomenon is a first necessary step towards effective action. A surge of populism, misinformation, and the impact of new technologies increase pressure on safety and freedom of scientists.